Glutathione
Glutathione is a naturally occurring tripeptide composed of glutamine, cysteine, and glycine, produced endogenously in nearly all human cells and recognized as one of the body's principal intracellular antioxidants. It is used clinically in some countries for oxidative-stress-related conditions and is widely discussed in wellness contexts for detoxification and immune support. Endogenous glutathione levels are known to decline with age and chronic disease, which has driven research interest in supplementation. Oral bioavailability is poor, which is why injectable forms are commonly used when higher systemic levels are desired.
Reported benefits
- May support antioxidant defense against oxidative stress
- Studied for a role in liver detoxification pathways
- Explored for potential immune function support
- Sometimes used for skin-brightening effects in cosmetic contexts
- May support recovery from oxidative stress associated with illness or exertion
How it works
Glutathione neutralizes reactive oxygen species and free radicals directly and serves as a cofactor for glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme central to cellular antioxidant defense. It also participates in phase II liver detoxification by conjugating with and helping eliminate certain toxins and xenobiotics. Additionally, glutathione supports immune cell function, including lymphocyte proliferation, though direct causal human immune-outcome data are limited.
Dosing ranges
| Tier | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 200 mg | 1-2 times weekly |
| Moderate | 600 mg | 1-2 times weekly |
| High | 1,200 mg | 1-2 times weekly |
Estimate your dose
Dose estimator
Educational estimate for Glutathione, scaled to body size. Not medical advice.
Read before using
This tool produces a rough, educational estimate by scaling commonly-published research ranges to lean body mass. It is not a prescription, medical advice, or a substitute for a licensed clinician. Most peptides use fixed dosing, not weight-based dosing. Individual needs vary. You are solely responsible for how you use this information.
Mixing & syringe units
Target dose follows the estimate above. Change it there, or edit it directly below.
Reconstitution calculator
How much water to add and how many insulin-syringe units to draw for Glutathione. Educational only.
Draw to this mark
12,000units
= 120 mL for a 600 mg dose
Concentration
5 mg/mL
Doses per vial
0
This dose needs 12,000 units, more than a 100-unit syringe holds. Add more water, split the dose, or use a larger syringe.
A U-100 syringe reads 100 units per mL. This is a reconstitution math helper only, not a prescription or dosing advice. Verify every calculation and consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible side effects
Stacking notes
Frequently paired with vitamin C, which may help regenerate oxidized glutathione; also discussed alongside NAD+ protocols
Common protocols
Common questions
What is Glutathione used for?
Glutathione is a naturally occurring tripeptide composed of glutamine, cysteine, and glycine, produced endogenously in nearly all human cells and recognized as one of the body's principal intracellular antioxidants. It is used clinically in some countries for oxidative-stress-related conditions and is widely discussed in wellness contexts for detoxification and immune support. Endogenous glutathione levels are known to decline with age and chronic disease, which has driven research interest in supplementation. Oral bioavailability is poor, which is why injectable forms are commonly used when higher systemic levels are desired. Reported benefits include may support antioxidant defense against oxidative stress, studied for a role in liver detoxification pathways, explored for potential immune function support.
What is a typical Glutathione dose?
Reported ranges run 200-1,200 mg. A low protocol is 200 mg 1-2 times weekly, and a high protocol is 1,200 mg 1-2 times weekly. This is reference information, not a dosing recommendation.
What is the half life of Glutathione?
Very short in plasma, on the order of minutes, due to rapid cellular uptake and recycling. That is what sets the dosing frequency, and it is why the timing guidance is morning.
How is Glutathione administered?
Intravenous: into a vein. Most commonly administered intravenously in clinical settings; subcutaneous and intramuscular administration are also used, though absorption and comparative efficacy data for non-IV routes are limited.
How long is a Glutathione cycle?
4-8 weeks on, followed by 2-4 weeks off. Often used continuously in clinical antioxidant-support protocols; cycling is more common in non-clinical wellness use
What are the side effects of Glutathione?
Reported side effects include nausea or abdominal cramping, particularly with iv administration, injection site discomfort, rare allergic reactions, theoretical risk of unmonitored heavy metal redistribution during high-dose detox protocols. Evidence level for this compound is well studied.
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Educational use only, not medical advice. This profile is provided for research and educational purposes. Glutathione may be a research compound or a prescription medication; nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dosing figures reflect commonly-published research ranges, not a prescription. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health decision. Read the full disclaimer →