Glutationa
Also known as: GSH, Glutathione, L-Glutationa
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
Antioxidant tripeptide (glutamic acid-cysteine-glycine) with an unconventional gamma bond, present in virtually all cells of the body. With a molecular weight of 307.32 Da, it is considered the primary intracellular antioxidant of the human body. Essential for hepatic detoxification, mitochondrial protection, and immune system support.
Clinical interest in exogenous glutathione lies in reinforcing the main intracellular antioxidant system: neutralization of reactive oxygen species, support of phase II hepatic detoxification, mitochondrial protection, regeneration of vitamins C and E, and immune support. In clinical practice it is used mainly for oxidative stress, hepatic support in patients exposed to drugs or toxins, and dermatological protocols aimed at skin pigmentation evening — the latter without robust evidence of efficacy.
Intravenous glutathione is approved in some countries as a drug (for example, in Italy and parts of Asia) for intoxications and chemotherapy support, but there is no broad FDA approval for aesthetic indications. In Brazil it is dispensed by compounding pharmacies in injectable and oral liposomal forms, in continuous or 4–12 week cycles. Intravenous and subcutaneous administration provide better bioavailability than the conventional oral route. There is no specific athletic indication or WADA ban.
ECG γ-Glu-Cys-Gly Tripeptide with γ-glutamyl bond (unconventional)
Half-life
~10-15 minutes (IV)
Administration Route
Intravenous, subcutaneous, or oral
Category
Specialized Research
Mechanism of Action
- Master antioxidant — neutralization of reactive oxygen species (ROS)
- Hepatic detoxification via conjugation with xenobiotics (phase II)
- Immune function support and lymphocyte proliferation
- Mitochondrial function protection and optimization
- Regeneration of other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | 200-600 mg IV or 100-500 mg subcutaneous |
| Frequency | 1-3 times per week |
| Timing | Morning or as directed |
| Duration | Continuous or 4-12 week cycles |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Abdominal cramps (oral)
- Transient flushing (IV)
- Mild headache
Product Properties
| Purity | >98% |
| Appearance | White to off-white lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and bacteriostatic water |
| Source | Chemical synthesis or fermentation |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 24-48 hours. Protect from oxidation. Store under inert atmosphere if possible. Protect from light and moisture. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Glutationa found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 2-5 ml per vial (depending on concentration)
- Slowly inject the diluent against the vial wall
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved
- Never shake
Storage
- Lyophilized: Refrigerated 2-8°C
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (use within 24-48 hours)
- Protect from direct light
- Glutathione oxidizes rapidly after reconstitution
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Glutationa.
Randomized Clinical Trial of How Long-Term Glutathione Supplementation Offers Protection from Oxidative Damage and Improves HbA1c in Elderly Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Kalamkar S, Acharya J, Kolappurath Madathil A, Gajjar V, Divate U, Karandikar-Iyer S, Goel P, Ghaskadbi S
Randomized controlled trial of oral glutathione supplementation on body stores of glutathione
Richie JP Jr, Nichenametla S, Neidig W, Calcagnotto A, Haley JS, Schell TD, Muscat JE
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