Glutathione Therapy

Glutathione is a tripeptide made of three amino acids – glutamate, cysteine and glycine – produced naturally by every cell in the body and often called the “master antioxidant”. It plays a central role in protecting cells against oxidative stress and free radicals, which are generated by air pollution, processed food, stress, lack of sleep, toxins and even normal metabolism. Ageing, chronic illness, poor nutrition and intense stress can reduce the body’s own glutathione production.

Glutathione therapy aims to support the body’s glutathione levels, most commonly through an intravenous (IV) infusion. It is used as a complementary well-being treatment, for example for people who want to support their antioxidant defences, energy and general well-being. The scientific evidence for many of its uses is still limited, it does not treat any disease and it is not a substitute for medical care. At our clinic in Beşiktaş, Istanbul, IV glutathione is given under physician supervision after a medical assessment.

The Body’s Protective Shield: Oxidative Stress and Free Radicals

Free radicals are unstable molecules with an unpaired electron. To stabilise themselves, they “steal” electrons from healthy cell membranes, proteins and even DNA, setting off chain reactions that damage cells – similar to metal rusting or a cut apple turning brown. They are produced continuously by pollution, UV rays, cigarette smoke, chemicals, processed food additives, excess alcohol, chronic stress and the body’s own energy production.

In a healthy body, antioxidant defences keep free radicals in balance. When this balance tips in favour of free radicals, the result is oxidative stress, which is considered one of the mechanisms behind ageing and is associated with visible signs such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity, as well as many chronic conditions. Unlike antioxidants we take in from outside, such as vitamins C and E, glutathione is produced inside every cell and can neutralise a free radical by donating an electron, then be regenerated and used again.

Glutathione Therapy

Glutathione is a multi-purpose molecule with three key roles:

Detoxification, Immunity and Anti-Ageing

• Detoxification: in the liver, glutathione plays a key role in the second (conjugation) phase of detoxification. It binds to certain toxins, chemicals and heavy metals, making fat-soluble substances water-soluble so they can be excreted in urine or bile.
• Immune function: adequate glutathione is important for the production and activity of white blood cells, especially T-lymphocytes, and helps protect immune cells from the free radicals they generate while fighting infection.
• Anti-ageing and skin: as the main intracellular antioxidant, glutathione helps protect mitochondria and DNA from oxidative damage. It is also known to inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production, which is why some people use it for a brighter, more even-looking complexion; however, evidence for this effect is limited, and glutathione should not be used as a skin-whitening treatment.

IV Glutathione at Our Clinic in Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Glutathione taken by mouth is largely broken down in the digestive system, so relatively little reaches the bloodstream. Giving it intravenously bypasses the digestive system and delivers it directly into the circulation, which is why IV infusion is the most common form of glutathione therapy.

The process begins with a detailed consultation about your general health, lifestyle, complaints (such as tiredness, frequent illness, difficulty concentrating or skin concerns) and goals. Medical conditions, medications, pregnancy and breastfeeding, allergies and, where needed, blood test results are taken into account to decide whether the treatment is appropriate for you. Persistent tiredness or frequent illness should always be investigated medically, as they can have treatable causes. If IV glutathione is suitable, I determine the dose and frequency of sessions.

The infusion itself is comfortable and takes about 15–20 minutes. While you rest in a comfortable chair, glutathione is given slowly through a vein, sometimes in a drip enriched with vitamins and minerals. Some people report feeling more energetic afterwards, but experiences vary from person to person.

This page is for general information. Suitability, possible side effects and expected results are assessed at a medical consultation; results vary between individuals.