What is Glutathione?
Glutathione is a tripeptide made by the body and one of the cell's most important antioxidants, including for detoxification in the liver. It is marketed for “detox”, anti-ageing and – especially as an infusion – skin lightening.
How well studied is Glutathione?
Studies on skin lightening and other uses are small and short (usually 4–12 weeks); long-term data on intravenous use are missing. When reviewing it for pharmacy compounding, the FDA found a lack of efficacy and safety data.
What side effects and risks does Glutathione have?
Injections or infusions by untrained staff risk infections up to sepsis. Allergic reactions and a possible skin-cancer risk from shifting pigment production are also discussed; reliable long-term data are missing. Authorities have warned about quality problems with injectable products bought online.
Is Glutathione approved in Germany?
In short: no. Not approved in Germany as a medicine for injection or infusion; available orally as a food supplement. In the US, glutathione is still only “under evaluation” for pharmacy compounding (FDA 503A, category 1). Infusions from wellness providers are in-house preparations without regulatory review.
Sources
- Sonthalia et al. 2016: Intravenous glutathione for skin lightening – inadequate safety data (S Afr Med J)
- FDA: Bulk drug substances nominated for use in compounding (503A), 2026
Note: We deliberately do not list any doses here. For approved medicines, your doctor sets the dose; for unapproved substances there is no reliable information.