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Glutathione

Extensively Studied

L-Glutathione | Master Antioxidant Tripeptide

Dose 100-600 mg injectable (100-200mg wellness, 200-600mg intensive); IV dosing higher (600-1400mg clinical)
Frequency 2-3 times weekly for subcutaneous; weekly for IV infusions
Cycle 8-12 weeks
Storage Lyophilized: 2-8°C refrigerated, protect from light; Reconstituted: 2-8°C refrigerated, protect from light
Accumulation Plotter

Glutathione is the body's master antioxidant, a tripeptide produced naturally by the liver. It protects cells against free radicals, peroxides, and heavy metals while eliminating toxins including drugs and pollutants. Injectable glutathione bypasses gastrointestinal breakdown for superior bioavailability compared to oral supplements. Research supports benefits for neurological health, immune function, skin health, and anti-aging.

Mechanism of Action

Glutathione acts as the primary intracellular antioxidant, directly neutralizing reactive oxygen species and regenerating other antioxidants like vitamins C and E. It plays crucial roles in detoxification by conjugating with toxins for elimination, supports immune function through T-cell regulation, protects mitochondria, and maintains cellular redox balance. The thiol group of cysteine provides its antioxidant activity.

Key Benefits

  • Master antioxidant - protects against oxidative stress
  • Detoxification of heavy metals and toxins
  • Immune system support and T-cell function
  • Neuroprotective effects
  • Skin health and potential brightening effects
  • Liver protection and function
  • Mitochondrial support
  • Anti-aging properties
Molecular Weight
307.32 Da
Chain Length
3 amino acids
Type
Tripeptide
Amino Acid Sequence
One-letter: ?ECG
H₂N
H
? 1
O ‖ C
N
E 2
O ‖ C
N
C 3
O ‖ C
N
H
G 4
COOH
γ
1

γ

Position 1

Glu
2

Glutamic Acid

Position 2

Cys
3

Cysteine

Position 3

Gly
4

Glycine

Position 4

N-terminus C-terminus
Hydrophobic
Polar
Positive (+)
Negative (-)
Modified

Antioxidant & Detox

  • Oxidative Stress Reduction

    Primary cellular antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and protects against oxidative damage.

  • Heavy Metal Detoxification

    Binds and facilitates elimination of heavy metals and environmental toxins.

  • Liver Support

    Essential for hepatic detoxification pathways and liver protection.

Neurological

  • Parkinson's Disease Support

    IV glutathione showed improvements in mental function and speech quality in case studies.

  • Neuroprotection

    Protects neurons against oxidative damage and supports brain health.

Immune & Skin

  • Immune Enhancement

    Improved Th1 cytokines and immune markers in HIV patients with supplementation.

  • Skin Health

    Supports skin health with potential brightening effects through melanin modulation.

  • Anti-Aging

    Combats age-related oxidative stress and supports cellular longevity.

Injectable glutathione is the most effective delivery method, bypassing GI breakdown for direct absorption. Subcutaneous injections are typically administered 2-3 times weekly. IV administration is fastest-acting but requires clinical supervision. Start with lower doses to assess tolerance.

GoalDoseFrequencyRoute
General wellness100-200 mg2-3x weeklySubQ
Intensive therapy200-600 mg2-3x weeklySubQ or IV
Detoxification600-1000 mgWeekly IVIV (clinical)
Parkinson's support1400 mg2-3x weeklyIV (clinical)

Reconstitution Instructions

Materials Needed:
  • Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline
  • Insulin syringes
  • Alcohol swabs
  • Peptide vial
  • Sterile work surface
  1. 1 Clean work area and hands thoroughly
  2. 2 Calculate required water volume
  3. 3 Draw diluent into syringe
  4. 4 Inject slowly into vial
  5. 5 Gently swirl until dissolved (never shake)
  6. 6 Store in refrigerator, protect from light
NAD+

Both support cellular energy and antioxidant systems; commonly combined in longevity protocols.

synergistic
Vitamin C

Glutathione regenerates oxidized vitamin C, creating synergistic antioxidant effects.

synergistic
SS-31

Both protect mitochondria; different mechanisms complement each other.

synergistic
BPC-157

No known negative interactions.

compatible
Immediately

Antioxidant activity begins

Days-Week 1

Improved energy and well-being may be noticed

Week 2-4

Cumulative detoxification benefits

Week 4-12

Full benefits for skin, immunity, and cellular health

Common Side Effects

  • Injection site reactions
  • Mild nausea (usually with higher doses)
  • Abdominal cramping

Stop Signs - Discontinue if:

  • Signs of allergic reaction (rash, difficulty breathing)
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Signs of zinc deficiency

Contraindications

  • Known allergy to glutathione
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
  • Asthma (may trigger bronchospasm in some)

Good Signs

  • White to off-white lyophilized powder
  • Clear solution after reconstitution
  • Reduced (not oxidized) form
  • Intact vacuum seal

Warning Signs

  • Slight yellowing may indicate oxidation

Bad Signs

  • Dark yellow or brown coloration
  • Cloudy solution
  • Strong sulfur odor (beyond mild)
  • IV Glutathione in Parkinson's Disease
    Movement Disorders (2009)

    IV glutathione 1,400 mg 3x weekly showed possible mild symptomatic effect in small trial.

  • Liposomal Glutathione in HIV Patients
    European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2019)

    13-week supplementation improved Th1 cytokines including IL-12, IFN-γ, and TNF-α.

  • Glutathione Supplementation for Skin Lightening
    Dermatology Reports (2025)

    Narrative review of efficacy and safety for skin lightening applications.

  • Glutathione Metabolism and Function
    Annual Review of Nutrition (2018)

    Comprehensive review of glutathione as master antioxidant and its roles in health.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.