📊Moderately Popular

Glutathione

Also known as: L-Glutathione, GSH, Reduced Glutathione, γ-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine

HealthAnti-AgingImmune Support
Not FDA Approved

Primary recreational use: Skin lightening

What is Glutathione?

Glutathione is a tripeptide composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine, often referred to as the body's 'master antioxidant.' It plays a crucial role in detoxification, immune support, and protecting cells against oxidative stress. While not FDA approved for therapeutic use, it is recognized as safe (GRAS status) for food use. Users should note potential risks of injection-related adverse effects and quality concerns with compounded products.

Primary Benefits

Supports detoxification. Enhances immune function. Reduces oxidative stress.

How It Works

Glutathione works as an antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals and reactive oxygen species. It engages in the recycling of other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, and facilitates detoxification through conjugation reactions. Its efficiency is based largely on maintaining the GSH/GSSG ratio, crucial for cellular health.

Safety Tips

Precautions reported in community discussions and literature. This is not a complete list.

  • 1.DON'T use during chemotherapy without oncologist approval - may interfere with treatment.
  • 2.AVOID during pregnancy and breastfeeding - safety not established.
  • 3.DON'T start with a high dose - begin with the lowest effective dose to assess tolerance.
  • 4.NEVER use unlicensed sources due to contamination risks.
  • 5.AVOID inhaled forms if you have asthma - may worsen symptoms.
  • 6.DON'T rely solely on glutathione for dramatic skin lightening effects.
  • 7.NEVER administer IV formulations outside of a clinical setting due to potential serious adverse reactions.
  • 8.DON'T neglect site rotation in injections to prevent tissue irritation.

Who Should NOT Use

  • G6PD deficiency
  • During pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Chemotherapy (without consultation)

Use Contexts

Different purposes have different protocols, dosing, and considerations

🔬Investigational

Immune support

moderate evidence

Used to enhance immune function by reducing oxidative stress and supporting lymphocyte activity.

Evidence: Multiple human studies indicate beneficial antioxidant effects with IV administration.

The following are ranges reported in published literature and community discussions. These are NOT recommendations or medical advice.

Reported Range
200-1400 mg
Reported Frequency
once weekly
Reported Cycle
4-8 weeks
Reported Route
Intravenous, Intramuscular, Subcutaneous

Timing: No specific timing required, but consistency is beneficial.

Notes: IV often given in clinical settings; IM/SubQ injections should rotate sites to prevent irritation.

Community-Reported Protocols

Not recommendations: The following protocols are compiled from online communities and published literature. Pepbase does not endorse, recommend, or verify these protocols. They are provided for informational purposes only. Individual responses vary significantly. Consult a licensed medical professional before any use.

Reported GoalReported DoseReported FrequencyReported Route
General antioxidant support200-400 mg1-2x weeklyIV or IM
Neurological support1400 mg3x weeklyIV infusion

Pharmacokinetics

Half-Life
~14 minutes
Time to Peak
Rapid with IV
Clearance
Rapid conversion to metabolites

Reported Side Effects

This is not a complete list. Other side effects may occur.

Common
Injection site paincommon (1-10%)
Gastrointestinal discomfortcommon (1-10%)
Serious / Rare
  • Anaphylaxis (especially IV)
Injection-Specific Warnings
  • pH imbalance can cause injection site stinging

Storage

Temperature
2-8°C
Reconstituted
Do not freeze and keep refrigerated
Shelf Life
Use within manufacturer's expiration
Light Sensitive
Yes - protect from light
⚡Recreational

Skin lightening

limited evidence

Employed for cosmetic purposes to reduce pigmentation and achieve a lighter skin tone.

Evidence: Limited studies and anecdotal reports suggest possible skin lightening effects with IV administration.

The following are ranges reported in published literature and community discussions. These are NOT recommendations or medical advice.

Reported Range
200-600 mg
Reported Frequency
once weekly
Reported Cycle
4-8 weeks
Reported Route
Intravenous

Timing: Flexible but consistent use advised.

Notes: Requires ongoing use for maintained effects.

Community-Reported Protocols

Not recommendations: The following protocols are compiled from online communities and published literature. Pepbase does not endorse, recommend, or verify these protocols. They are provided for informational purposes only. Individual responses vary significantly. Consult a licensed medical professional before any use.

Reported GoalReported DoseReported FrequencyReported Route
Skin lightening200-600 mgonce weeklyIV

Pharmacokinetics

Half-Life
~14 minutes
Time to Peak
Rapid with IV
Clearance
Rapid conversion to metabolites

Reported Side Effects

This is not a complete list. Other side effects may occur.

Common
Injection site paincommon (1-10%)
Rare cases of hepatotoxicityuncommon (0.1-1%)
Serious / Rare
  • Potential for anaphylaxis
Injection-Specific Warnings
  • Potential for contamination with unregulated products

Storage

Temperature
2-8°C
Reconstituted
Protect from light, use within expiration
Shelf Life
Manufacturer's expiration
Light Sensitive
Yes - protect from light

Harm Reduction Information

Quality Concerns

  • Contamination from unlicensed sources
  • Incorrect concentration
  • Degradation of product

Safety Tips

  • Use licensed compounding pharmacies
  • Start with low doses to assess tolerance
  • Ensure proper sterile technique for injections
  • Rotate injection sites regularly

Warning Signs to Stop

  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Unexplained jaundice
  • Worsening asthma symptoms

Seek Medical Help Immediately If

  • Experiencing anaphylaxis
  • Signs of liver damage (e.g., jaundice, dark urine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Glutathione

How long until I see effects?

With glutathione, effects like improved energy or skin appearance may take 4-8 weeks of consistent use to manifest.

What time of day should I take it?

Glutathione can be taken morning or evening, often recommended on an empty stomach for better absorption.

How can I minimize side effects?

To minimize side effects with glutathione, start with a low dose, use a reputable source, and ensure proper technique for injections.

Does tolerance develop?

Glutathione does not typically cause tolerance, but consistent supplementation is needed for sustained effects.

How should I store it?

Store glutathione in the fridge at 2-8°C, protect from light, and don't freeze reconstituted products.

Do I need to cycle it?

Some protocols recommend cycling glutathione with a break after 4-8 weeks of use.

Reported Combinations

Compounds reported to be used alongside Glutathione in community discussions

off label-medical

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)

Boosts endogenous glutathione production.

recreational

Vitamin C

Helps recycle glutathione.

off label-medical

Alpha-lipoic acid

Amplifies antioxidant effects.

Reported Interactions

Interactions reported in literature and community discussions.

Acetaminophenmoderate

May interfere with liver processing.

Vitamin Cminor

Enhances glutathione recycling.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)minor

Could boost glutathione levels.

Reconstitution Calculator

mL
U100 insulin syringe01020304050607080901001mL

100 units = 1 mL

Safety Tips

  • Always consult a licensed medical professional for dosing and reconstitution instructions.
  • Always double check your units. Mixing up mg and mcg can be very dangerous.
  • Make sure to select your syringe type. U-100 and U-50 syringes have different units.
  • Ensure you're not adding more BAC than your vial can hold. Most vials have maximum capacities listed.

This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, dosing recommendations, or safety determinations. Reference ranges shown are compiled from publicly available sources and are not a substitute for guidance from a licensed healthcare professional.

Explore More Research

Browse our database of peptide research information compiled from published literature and community sources.

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Citations

Last updated: October 5, 2023

Important Disclaimer

AI-Generated Content Notice

The information on this page has been compiled using artificial intelligence (AI) and large language model (LLM) technology from multiple sources including published literature, online communities, and public databases. This content may contain errors, inaccuracies, outdated information, or omissions. We make no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. You are solely responsible for independently verifying any information before relying on it.

Not Medical Advice

Nothing on this website constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. The information provided is for educational and harm-reduction purposes only. We do not provide individualized dosing guidance or treatment recommendations. Protocols and dosing information shown represent reports from community discussions and published literature—they are not endorsements or recommendations. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.

No Endorsement of Use

Pepbase does not endorse, encourage, or recommend the use of any peptide or substance discussed on this website. Many compounds discussed are not approved for human use by the FDA or other regulatory agencies. Some substances may be illegal to possess, sell, or use in your jurisdiction. We do not facilitate or encourage the procurement, distribution, or use of controlled or prescription-only substances. Users are solely responsible for understanding and complying with all applicable laws in their jurisdiction.

Calculators and Tools

Any calculators, estimators, or tools provided on this website are for informational purposes only and produce estimates that may be inaccurate. Errors in calculations can result in serious harm. You are solely responsible for verifying all calculations independently. These tools do not account for individual factors that may affect dosing and should never be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical guidance.

Assumption of Risk

By using this website, you acknowledge that you understand the risks associated with using unregulated substances and that you assume full responsibility for your own health decisions. Pepbase, its creators, contributors, and affiliates disclaim all liability for any harm, injury, or damages arising from the use or misuse of information on this website. Use of any information on this site is entirely at your own risk.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call emergency services immediately. If you have questions about medications or supplements, consult a licensed pharmacist or physician.