What to Avoid with Glutathione IV Therapy - Risks and Safe Use

The Benefits and Risks of Glutathione

Glutathione is an antioxidant that is gaining popularity as a supplement. Proponents claim it can boost the immune system, improve skin health, and help detoxify the body. While there are potential benefits, glutathione also comes with risks if not used properly.

What is Glutathione?

Glutathione is an antioxidant that is naturally produced in the body. It is comprised of three amino acids - cysteine, glycine, and glutamine. Glutathione plays a key role in important bodily processes like:

• Fighting cellular damage from free radicals
• Supporting the immune system
• Detoxifying the body of toxins
• Maintaining healthy skin

Within the body, glutathione exists in two forms - reduced and oxidized. The reduced form is the active antioxidant state. As glutathione neutralizes free radicals, it becomes oxidized. The body then recycles the oxidized glutathione back into its active reduced form.

Some people take glutathione supplements to try to increase the levels circulating in their body. But glutathione is not well absorbed orally. That's why intravenous (IV) glutathione drips were developed.

The Potential Benefits of Glutathione IV Drips

Getting glutathione through an IV drip allows the supplement to bypass digestion completely. Higher amounts enter directly into the bloodstream. Possible benefits of glutathione IV therapy include:

• Immune system support - Glutathione is concentrated in immune cells like T cells and NK cells. Studies show glutathione drips may improve immune response.
• Detoxification - The liver uses glutathione to neutralize toxins. Glutathione drips may help detox the body of pollutants, pesticides, medications, and alcohol.
• Skin lightening - Glutathione inhibits melanin production. IV drips may help lighten skin tone and reduce signs of aging like spots and wrinkles.
• Recovery after exercise - Athletes use glutathione drips to reduce oxidative damage to muscles and recovery time.
• Respiratory health - Glutathione may benefit those with asthma or cystic fibrosis when administered intravenously.

Potential Risks of Glutathione Therapy

Despite the hype around glutathione as a super antioxidant, there are also potential downsides to IV glutathione therapy:

• Side effects like upset stomach, headache, trouble breathing, and insomnia have been reported.
• The safety of long-term or frequent use has not been established.
• High doses could potentially have pro-oxidant effects, causing more oxidative stress.
• There are concerns about the purity and quality control of some glutathione supplements.
• Skin lightening is controversial and may have other health risks.
• More research is still needed on the overall efficacy and optimal dosing.

Glutathione drips are also an off-label use not officially approved by the FDA. Given the uncertainties around glutathione, it's extremely important to get IV glutathione only under proper medical supervision.

What to Avoid When Getting a Glutathione IV Drip

If you and your doctor determine glutathione therapy may be helpful for you, there are certain things to keep in mind to minimize any potential risks:

1. Avoid DIY Drips

Never administer glutathione or any IV infusion yourself at home. Improperly infusing any supplement intravenously can result in:

• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Damage to veins
• Blood clots
• Infection
• Air embolism
• Low blood pressure
• Nerve injury

Only get glutathione drips from an experienced doctor's office or clinic with proper medical supervision and monitoring.

2. Avoid Unapproved Products

The FDA has issued warnings about unapproved injectable glutathione products. Only use pharmaceutical-grade glutathione from a reputable supplier approved for intravenous use. Beware of unregulated supplements which could be contaminated or contain fillers.

3. Avoid Overly Frequent Doses

There is minimal evidence on the safety of getting glutathione drips too often. Most recommend no more than 1-2 times per week, spaced out by at least 3-4 days between doses. More frequent doses could increase the risks of side effects.

4. Avoid High Doses

Megadoses of glutathione should be avoided because they can potentially have pro-oxidant effects. Doses above 1,500 mg are generally not recommended. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for proper dosing tailored to your needs.

5. Avoid IV Drips When Sick

Do not get a glutathione IV drip if you have a cold, flu, infection, or any illness. Glutathione modulates the immune system so supplementing when sick could make your condition worse. Wait until you fully recover before continuing therapy.

6. Avoid Oral Glutathione Before/After Drip

Avoid taking oral glutathione supplements within 48 hours before or after your glutathione drip. Combining oral and intravenous glutathione could potentially lead to excessively high doses in your system.

7. Avoid Alcohol Around Treatment

Avoid consuming alcohol within 24 hours before or after your scheduled glutathione drip. Alcohol consumption could impact glutathione levels. It may also exacerbate potential side effects.

The Bottom Line

Glutathione IV therapy may offer benefits but also comes with considerable risks if improperly administered. Work closely with an experienced healthcare provider. Avoid DIY drips, unapproved products, overly frequent doses, very high doses, getting drips when sick, combining oral/IV glutathione, and alcohol consumption around treatment times.

Your provider will tailor the treatment regimen and dosing to meet your individual needs while also monitoring for any potential side effects. With proper oversight, those who need it may experience benefits from glutathione therapy. But more research is still needed to fully confirm its efficacy and safety profile.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.