Glutathione is the body's primary intracellular antioxidant, a tripeptide (γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine) that neutralizes reactive oxygen species and supports detoxification pathways.
Administration Routes and Dosage
IV: 600–1200 mg in saline, 1–3x per week (highest bioavailability). Subcutaneous: 200–400 mg/day. Nebulized: 600 mg/day for pulmonary research. Oral glutathione has poor bioavailability; oral precursors (NAC, glycine) are preferred for oral protocols.
Antioxidant Mechanism
Glutathione neutralizes hydrogen peroxide, lipid peroxides, and reactive nitrogen species via glutathione peroxidase. It also regenerates vitamins C and E and supports Phase II liver detoxification via glutathione S-transferase conjugation.
Research Applications
Liver disease: IV glutathione reduces oxidative stress markers in NAFLD and alcoholic liver disease. Parkinson's disease: IV glutathione shows neuroprotective effects in small trials. Skin lightening: inhibits tyrosinase, reducing melanin synthesis.