GLUTATHIONE: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Glutathione is a substance made from the amino acids glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid. It is produced by the liver and involved in many body processes.

Glutathione is involved in tissue building and repair, making chemicals and proteins needed in the body, and in immune system function.

People take glutathione for aging, alcohol use disorder, liver disease, heart disease, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for

Nerve damage caused by the drug cisplatin. Taking glutathione by IV seems to help prevent nerve damage and other toxicities from the cancer drug cisplatin. IV products can only be given by a healthcare provider.

There is interest in using glutathione for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Glutathione is possibly safe when used in doses up to 500 mg daily for up to 2 months. There isn't a lot of information available about its possible side effects.

When inhaled: Glutathione is possibly safe. There isn't a lot of information available about its possible side effects.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if glutathione is safe. It might cause rash when applied to the skin.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if glutathione is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Asthma: Do not inhale glutathione if you have asthma. It can increase some asthma symptoms.

Interactions

We currently have no information for GLUTATHIONE overview.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of glutathione might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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GLUTATHIONE - Uses, Side Effects, and More