Guide to Glutathione IV Therapy: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects

IV therapy is quickly gaining traction in health and wellness circles, and glutathione is one of the most promising ingredients in these nutrient cocktails. In this guide, we’ll explore the many benefits of glutathione IV therapy and how you can use it to improve your physical health, mental clarity, and complexion. 

What is glutathione in IV drips?

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that combats oxidative stress, supports the immune system, and aids in cellular repair. Here’s an overview of how glutathione IV therapy works: 

How does glutathione work in the body?

Glutathione plays a crucial role in the body’s detoxification pathways, helping to eliminate waste, toxins, and heavy metals more efficiently. Composed of three amino acids (glutamic acid, glycine, and cysteine), glutathione is essential for central nervous system function and may even protect against certain neurodegenerative disorders. If that’s not enough, it’s also great for your skin! 

What IV therapies contain glutathione?

At Balanced Health and Wellness, two of our signature IV drips contain glutathione.

The Glow Drip features a blend of glutathione, vitamin C, and biotin that helps reduce oxidative stress and brighten the skin for a more radiant complexion. The Snow Bright Drip, containing vitamin C and alpha-lipoic acid alongside glutathione, can lighten skin tone and minimize dark spots for a healthier, youthful glow. 

What is glutathione used for?

Glutathione IV therapy can alter the way your body produces melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. While this may be used to lighten overall skin tone, it can also help reverse dark spots and hyperpigmentation. 

But the benefits of glutathione aren’t merely cosmetic. By helping the body eliminate toxins, this antioxidant can balance liver enzymes and reduce the risk of fatty liver disease. It also reduces oxidative stress caused by free radicals, a poor diet, or a sedentary lifestyle, which can improve physical health, mental clarity, and the appearance of your skin.

Related: Guide to Hormone Replacement Therapy and Weight Loss

Benefits of glutathione IV therapy

Unlike dietary supplements, glutathione IV therapy bypasses the digestive system, so your body can utilize this potent antioxidant more effectively. Here are some of the benefits this treatment offers: 

Reduces inflammation

Chronic inflammation is linked to countless medical conditions, including liver disease and insulin resistance. Lower levels of glutathione may increase the risk of developing these conditions and make them harder to manage. 

However, even people without medical issues can suffer from inflammation. Glutathione minimizes redness and puffiness, which improves the appearance of rosacea, inflammatory acne, and other conditions. 

Promotes anti-aging

Age, hormone fluctuations, and oxidative stress can all take a toll on your skin, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and a dull complexion. But glutathione IV therapy promotes cellular repair and collagen production to reverse these effects. 

Boosts immune function

Glutathione protects immune cells and helps your body fight infections more effectively. In fact, studies have shown that increasing these antioxidant levels can help people with cystic fibrosis prevent certain lung infections. 

Of course, stronger immune defenses can also help your skin recover more quickly from breakouts, irritation, and facial treatments.   

Detoxifies

We’ve already discussed the importance of detoxification in the body, but how does this translate to your complexion? When your liver can’t clear toxins effectively, that toxic load can manifest in the skin, leading to dullness, breakouts, and uneven texture. Glutathione helps detoxify skin from the inside out. 

Reduces dark spots

As we age, the effects of sun exposure and slow cell turnover can cause dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Glutathione influences melanin production and supports the creation of new skin cells to fade this discoloration and soften old scars. It can be particularly powerful when combined with other antioxidants like vitamin C.

Related: The Benefits of NAD+ Injections for Energy, Anti-Aging, and Wellness

What are the side effects of glutathione in IV drips?

While there’s a lot to love about glutathione IV therapy, there are a few side effects to keep in mind: 

Injection site pain

Some people experience mild discomfort, redness, or swelling at the IV site, but this should improve shortly after the session. 

Headache

Headaches can occur as the body adjusts to the infusion, but staying hydrated before and after treatment can minimize this effect. 

Fever

Your immune system will also need time to acclimate to the surge of antioxidants in your system. Chills and a low-grade fever are rare, but temporary, and should resolve within a day or so. 

Nausea and vomiting

If you’re prone to nausea, be sure to eat a light meal before your glutathione IV therapy treatment. Be sure to tell your provider so they can ensure a slow and steady infusion to prevent stomach upset. 

Allergic reaction

Though uncommon, it’s possible to have a glutathione allergy. Your provider will watch for any signs of an adverse reaction, but tell them right away if you notice itching, a rash, swelling, or shortness of breath during your IV treatment.

Related: Vitamin D Injections: Supplement vs Shot Effectiveness

Enhance your health and wellbeing at Balanced Health & Wellness!

Ready to see how the Glow Drip or Snow Bright Drip can transform your skin and improve your overall wellness? Book an appointment at Balanced Health & Wellness today!