Glutathione

Name	Glutathione
Uses	Potent antioxidant used to support detoxification, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance cellular function. Commonly used in wellness protocols for immune support, anti-aging, skin brightening, and general detoxification. May also assist with recovery after illness, travel, or exposure to environmental toxins.
Route Of Administration	Intravenous (IV)
Frequency Of Use	Typically administered once weekly for general wellness and antioxidant support. In skin brightening or intensive detox protocols, may be given up to twice weekly for 4 to 6 weeks, followed by reassessment. Long-term use should be reviewed every 8 to 12 weeks.
Concentration(s)	Common compounded concentrations range from 100 mg/mL to 200 mg/mL.
Maximum Dosage (Day, Wk) (g/mL)/mL	Maximum dose per infusion: 2,000 mg (2 g). Maximum weekly dose: 4,000 mg (4 g). Higher doses are not recommended for elective wellness patients due to potential risk of adverse effects and diminishing returns on benefit.
Contraindications	Severe asthma (risk of bronchospasm). Active respiratory distress. Severe renal or hepatic impairment. Known hypersensitivity to glutathione or any component of the formulation. Pregnancy and breastfeeding unless specifically cleared by OB provider. Use with caution in patients with sulfur allergies if the formulation contains preservatives derived from sulfur compounds.
Possible Side Effects	Nausea, metallic taste, or headache during infusion. Flushing or mild hypotension, especially if infused too rapidly. Injection site discomfort. Rare: bronchospasm (more common in asthmatic patients) or allergic reaction (rash, itching, anaphylaxis). Prolonged high-dose use may contribute to zinc depletion.
Compatibility With Other Drugs	Compatible with normal saline and D5W. Should not be mixed directly with calcium-containing solutions. When combined with vitamin C, vitamin C should be infused first to prevent oxidation of glutathione. Always check compatibility if mixing with multiple nutrients in a single bag.
Allergies	True allergy to glutathione is rare. Reactions are more often related to preservatives, stabilizers, or contaminants in compounded formulations.
Administration Time	Typical infusion time: 20 to 30 minutes for doses between 600 mg and 2,000 mg. Slower infusion (up to 45 minutes) may improve tolerability in sensitive patients.
IV Dosing	For general wellness and antioxidant support: 600 mg to 1,200 mg IV once weekly. For skin brightening or detox protocols: 1,200 mg to 2,000 mg IV once or twice weekly for 4 to 6 weeks, followed by reassessment. Long-term use requires periodic clinical review.
IM/Push	May be given as a slow IV push for doses up to 600 mg over 5 to 10 minutes. Higher doses should be given via drip to reduce risk of nausea and hypotension. IM administration is not recommended due to local irritation and inconsistent absorption.
What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs	1. Stop the infusion immediately. 2. Assess vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation). 3. If bronchospasm occurs, administer a bronchodilator (e.g., albuterol inhaler) and oxygen if needed. Consider emergency medical services if symptoms do not resolve quickly. 4. For allergic reactions (rash, itching, shortness of breath), administer antihistamines and consider epinephrine if severe. 5. If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange for emergency transfer to a higher level of care (call 911 if necessary).