Glutathione is the body's most abundant intracellular antioxidant, composed of three amino acids: glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It directly neutralizes free radicals, regenerates vitamins C and E, supports liver detoxification (phase II metabolism), enhances immune function, and reduces oxidative stress. Intravenous administration achieves higher bioavailability than oral, making it ideal for conditions like chronic fatigue, liver disease, Parkinson's, and for skin brightening (inhibits melanin synthesis).
Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide (L-γ-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine) synthesized in every cell. It plays critical roles:
1. Direct antioxidant: The thiol (-SH) group donates electrons to neutralize ROS (superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide), forming GSSG (oxidized glutathione). GSSG is recycled back to GSH by glutathione reductase.
2. Detoxification: Conjugates with xenobiotics and heavy metals via glutathione S-transferase (GST), making them water-soluble for excretion in bile/urine.
3. Immune modulation: Enhances lymphocyte proliferation and natural killer (NK) cell activity. Reduces viral replication in some infections.
4. Neuroprotection: Protects dopaminergic neurons from oxidative damage (beneficial in Parkinson's).
5. Skin lightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme, reducing melanin synthesis and converting eumelanin to pheomelanin, leading to lighter skin tone.
Intravenous glutathione bypasses first-pass metabolism, achieving peak plasma levels 5–10 times higher than oral.
| Active Ingredient | Reduced Glutathione (GSH) – 600 mg per lyophilized vial |
|---|---|
| Solvent (Ampoule) | Sterile Water for Injection (WFI) – 5 ml or 10 ml depending on presentation |
| Excipients in powder | Mannitol (as bulking agent), sodium hydroxide (pH adjustment) |
| pH after reconstitution | 6.0 – 7.5 |
Liver diseases (cirrhosis, fatty liver): 600 mg to 1200 mg intravenously once daily or alternate days for 4–8 weeks.
Heavy metal detoxification: 600 mg IV twice weekly for 4–6 weeks.
Parkinson's disease: 600 mg IV twice weekly for 4–6 months (off-label).
Skin brightening / anti-aging: 600 mg to 1200 mg IV once weekly for 6–10 sessions, then monthly maintenance.
Chronic fatigue / fibromyalgia: 600 mg IV once weekly for 6 weeks.
Inject 5–10 ml sterile water for injection into the lyophilized powder vial. Swirl gently to dissolve (do not shake vigorously). Withdraw the reconstituted solution (concentration approximately 60–120 mg/ml). For IV: dilute further in 50–100 ml normal saline or 5% dextrose and infuse over 15–30 minutes. For IM: inject deeply into large muscle (gluteal). Use immediately after reconstitution; discard any unused portion.
| Dosage Form | Sterile lyophilized powder in glass vial + solvent ampoule |
|---|---|
| Strength | 600 mg per vial (single-dose) |
| Packaging | 1 vial + 1 ampoule per carton, 10 cartons per outer box |
| Manufacturing Standard | WHO-GMP, ISO 13485 (sterile injectables) | Shelf Life | 24 months from date of manufacture (unopened) |
| Country of Origin | India |
| Minimum Order Qty | 500 units (500 vials + 500 ampoules) |
Glutathione injection is generally well tolerated. Rare side effects may include:
Asthma: Intravenous glutathione may trigger bronchospasm in sensitive individuals. Administer with caution and have emergency equipment ready.
Renal impairment: No dose adjustment needed, but monitor for adverse effects.
Pregnancy & lactation: Safety not established – avoid unless clearly needed.
Skin lightening claims: Not approved by FDA for this indication; use only as per clinical protocol.
Store below 25°C (77°F), protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep in original carton.
Lyophilized powder is stable for 24 months. Once reconstituted, use immediately (within 2 hours if stored at 2–8°C). Discard if solution is discolored or contains particles.
Full export docs: COA, Stability data, GMP certificate, FSC, MSDS, commercial invoice. Cold chain not required, but protect from extreme heat (>40°C).
