Longevity

Glutathione

L-Glutathione (γ-Glutamylcysteinylglycine)

The master antioxidant your cells depend on

Glutathione is the body's most abundant antioxidant, found in every cell. It neutralises free radicals, supports detoxification, and declines significantly with age.

Glutathione illustration
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Admin routes

IV, Subcutaneous, Oral (liposomal)

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Popularity

High

Side effects

Generally mild

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AU vendors

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Key benefits

1Most abundant intracellular antioxidant
2Supports liver detoxification pathways
3Regenerates vitamins C and E
4Immune system support and optimisation
5Skin brightening and complexion improvement
6Neuroprotective - crosses blood-brain barrier

📈What to expect

1
Day 1 (IV)

Immediate sense of energy and clarity

2
Week 1–2

Improved skin brightness; reduced oxidative markers

3
Week 4–8

Visible skin lightening/brightening (if goal)

4
Week 8–12

Sustained antioxidant and detoxification benefits

Based on community reports and published research. Individual results vary significantly.

💊Dosing protocols

General antioxidant support (oral)

Dose

250–500 mg liposomal

Frequency

Once daily

Duration

Ongoing

Detoxification (IV)

Dose

600–1400 mg

Frequency

Weekly

Duration

4–8 week cycles

Skin brightening

Dose

600–1200 mg IV or 500 mg oral

Frequency

Weekly (IV) or daily (oral)

Duration

8–12 weeks

Dosing information is sourced from published research and community protocols. This is not a recommendation. Consult a healthcare professional.

Research status|Extensive human data - well-established biochemistry

Overview

Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. It is the most abundant intracellular antioxidant in the human body and is critical for detoxification, immune function, and cellular protection against oxidative stress. Glutathione levels decline with age, chronic illness, poor diet, and environmental toxin exposure. Supplementation via IV, injection, or oral (liposomal) forms has become a staple in longevity and functional medicine.

⚙️How it works

Neutralises free radicals and reactive oxygen species through electron donation. Acts as a cofactor for glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase enzymes. Regenerates vitamins C and E to their active forms. Plays a central role in phase II liver detoxification - conjugating toxins for excretion. Maintains cellular redox balance critical for immune cell function and DNA repair.

Side effects

Mild GI discomfort (oral)
mildUncommon
Injection site reaction
mildCommon
Temporary bloating
mildUncommon

📅Research history

1888

First identified by J. de Rey-Pailhade

1935

Chemical structure determined by Hopkins

1970s

Role in detoxification and liver function established

2000s

IV glutathione clinics emerge for wellness and skin brightening

2020s

Liposomal forms make effective oral supplementation practical

Oral vs IV glutathione

Standard oral glutathione is poorly absorbed - stomach acid and peptidases break it down before it reaches circulation. Liposomal glutathione wraps the molecule in phospholipid layers, dramatically improving bioavailability (some studies suggest comparable levels to IV administration). IV glutathione bypasses the gut entirely and achieves immediate high blood levels, but requires clinical administration. For most people, high-quality liposomal glutathione is the practical choice.

References

  1. [1]Pizzorno J. 'Glutathione!' Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal, 2014.
  2. [2]Richie JP, et al. 'Randomized controlled trial of oral glutathione supplementation on body stores of glutathione.' European Journal of Nutrition, 2015.

Frequently asked questions

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Disclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. The dosing protocols listed are sourced from published research and community reports and do not constitute a recommendation. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide. Australian regulations classify many peptides as Schedule 4 (prescription-only) substances. Check current TGA guidelines before purchasing.