Glutathione

What people use it for

• Antioxidant and 'detox' (popular use)
• Skin lightening (popular use, mainly injected)
• Liver health (research)

What Glutathione does in the body

A three-amino-acid peptide (glutamate, cysteine and glycine) made by every cell. It neutralises reactive molecules, helps the liver process toxins and drugs, and shifts melanin production towards lighter pigment.

Strength of evidence

Weak: small trials of oral and topical forms show modest effects; little good evidence for injected skin lightening or 'detox' claims.

Look up the evidence

• Reviews on PubMed: Summaries of the published research
• Clinical trials on PubMed: Published studies in people
• ClinicalTrials.gov: Registered trials, past and ongoing

Live searches of official databases. New to the terms? See the glossary.

Reported side effects & risks

• Bloating or cramps (oral)
• Allergic reactions and rash
• Serious reactions reported with unregulated injectable products
• Possible wheezing when inhaled by people with asthma

Who should avoid it or take extra care

• Asthma (inhaled forms can trigger wheezing)
• Pregnant or breastfeeding (injected or IV forms)
• IV 'skin-lightening' drips from unlicensed providers

Not a complete list. Check with a doctor or pharmacist about your own health and medicines.

Regulatory status

Sold as a dietary supplement (oral). Injectable skin-lightening products are not approved, and regulators in several countries have warned against them.

How it's taken

Route: By mouth, under the tongue, injection or IV drip

How long it lasts (half-life): About 10–15 minutes in the blood