Glutathione is naturally occurring tripeptide (glutamate-cysteine-glycine) antioxidant. Glutathione is a tiny peptide made of three amino acids that every cell makes. It is the body's main internal antioxidant. It is widely sold as a supplement and offered by wellness and IV clinics, often for 'detox' or skin brightening.
Education only. Not medical advice. No dosing information.
Status (verified Oct 29, 2026): Sold as a dietary supplement; we found no FDA approval for wellness use. Source: Randomized trial of oral glutathione and body stores published (Eur J Nutr)
Evidence tier: Small human trials (supplement)
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What it is
Glutathione is a tiny peptide made of three amino acids that every cell makes. It is the body's main internal antioxidant. It is widely sold as a supplement and offered by wellness and IV clinics, often for 'detox' or skin brightening.
How it works
It neutralizes reactive oxygen species and helps the liver process some toxins. Whether swallowing it raises levels inside the body has been debated; one randomized trial found oral glutathione raised body stores over 6 months.
What it's researched for
Antioxidant status, aging, skin tone and liver health. Most wellness claims rely on small or early studies.
Where it shows up on Peptide Horizon
Regulatory and research timeline
- 2015: Randomized trial of oral glutathione and body stores published (Eur J Nutr) (source)
Key trials and studies
- Randomized controlled trial of oral glutathione on body stores (Eur J Nutr 2015)
- PubChem compound record (CID 124886)
FAQ
Is glutathione FDA approved?
We found no FDA-approved glutathione drug for general wellness, detox or skin use. It is sold as a dietary supplement, which the FDA does not approve before sale.
Does oral glutathione work?
A 6-month randomized trial found oral glutathione raised glutathione stores in blood and cells (Eur J Nutr, 2015). Evidence for specific health or skin outcomes is limited.
Is glutathione a peptide?
Yes. It is a tripeptide made of glutamate, cysteine and glycine.
Related peptides
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Sources
Editorial review - Last reviewed Oct 29, 2026