Glutathione
Antioxidant & cellular defense
How it works
Glutathione is a tripeptide antioxidant (glycine, cysteine, glutamate) produced by essentially every human cell. It acts as the primary intracellular reducing agent — neutralizing reactive oxygen species, recycling other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, and supporting phase-II hepatic detoxification pathways.
Endogenous glutathione levels fall with age and with certain chronic conditions. Supplementation aims to support the intracellular antioxidant pool; how well an exogenous dose raises tissue glutathione depends on route of administration and individual factors.
What is known about the class
Oral glutathione is poorly absorbed; parenteral routes are typically used clinically.
Subcutaneous administration provides steady systemic exposure without the peak of intravenous dosing.
Class-level information. Individual dose, schedule, and monitoring are set by the prescribing physician.
How this medication is regulated
Compounded glutathione is not an FDA-approved drug. It is prepared by a licensed 503A compounding pharmacy under an individual prescription.
The FDA does not review compounded medications for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality before they are marketed.
If a provider considers Glutathione for a member
An antioxidant naturally produced by the body, involved in cellular defense, redox balance, protection from oxidative stress, and the recycling of other antioxidants. At Meridian it is provided as a prescription subcutaneous injection prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy.
A provider may evaluate glutathione when antioxidant support, cellular protection, recovery, or oxidative-stress reduction surface in an individual’s assessment — as a complement within a physician-designed plan, never a standalone fix.
A subcutaneous injection, with frequency and strength individualized by the prescribing physician. Self-administration at home is guided, with supplies and training included.
What to know
- —Not a detox, liver cleanse, or anti-aging cure; requires independent provider review.
- —Compounded glutathione is not an FDA-approved drug; evidence for many wellness uses is early.
- —Individuals with certain sensitivities should discuss them openly at assessment — they factor into the clinical decision.
- —A licensed physician independently decides whether glutathione is appropriate for you.
What’s new in Glutathione
Curated from public sources. Meridian does not endorse individual studies or news outlets; inclusion is not medical advice.
Nothing new yet — check back soon.
Every treatment option is presented for educational purposes only. All prescribing decisions are made independently by a licensed physician after review of your health history, goals, medications, laboratory information, and clinical evaluation. Nothing on this page is an offer of treatment or a guarantee of outcomes.
Meridian Vitality is a technology and health-services platform. Clinical services are provided by independent licensed medical professionals. Meridian Vitality does not independently diagnose, prescribe, or direct medical care.
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. The FDA does not review compounded medications for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality before they are marketed. The availability of a treatment depends on the prescribing provider’s independent medical judgment, pharmacy availability, applicable law, the individual’s medical history, and other clinical considerations.
Potential benefits are not guaranteed. Individual results vary. Meridian Zenith™ is a proprietary Meridian Vitality program name for a compounded oxytocin / bremelanotide formulation.
Find out if Glutathione is appropriate for you.
A licensed physician independently reviews your intake and decides — you’re never charged unless care is approved.
Start Your Free Assessment