Glutathione IV Drip: Cost, Benefits, Procedure & Side Effects

Glutathione, a potent antioxidant naturally found in the body, is crucial for various bodily processes. Produced in the liver, this vital substance, composed of three amino acids-cysteine, glutamine, and glycine, plays a pivotal role in detoxification and immune function. Glutathione IV drip, a popular wellness treatment, stands out for its unique ability to deliver the antioxidant directly into the bloodstream, enhancing the absorption rate. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Glutathione IV therapy, its distinctive working mechanism, and its unparalleled benefits.

What is Glutathione IV?

Glutathione IV (intravenous) therapy involves administering this powerful antioxidant directly into the bloodstream for enhanced bioavailability. This treatment effectively reduces the appearance of dark spots, lightens the skin, and improves elasticity.

How Does Glutathione IV Treatment Work?

Glutathione has powerful antioxidant properties that protect your body from the damage caused by free radicals and boost the immune system. Glutathione deficiency can lead to various health issues. While consuming a diet rich in Glutathione or taking supplements can increase the levels of Glutathione in the body, the efficacy of this antioxidant diminishes as it passes through the digestive system. However, Glutathione IV therapy, a safe and reliable method, ensures the direct delivery of this antioxidant into your bloodstream, making you feel confident and secure about its effectiveness.

The Glutathione IV drip offers a unique solution to maintaining optimal Glutathione levels in the body. Directly infusing the antioxidant into the bloodstream ensures a 100% absorption rate, as the antioxidant remains intact throughout the process. This method not only significantly minimises the adverse effects but also maintains its efficacy, making it a superior choice for those seeking the benefits of this powerful antioxidant.

A standard Glutathione IV treatment takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The procedure is very simple, and you can resume your daily activities immediately after the treatment. There is no downtime involved.

What Are The Benefits of Glutathione IV Drip?

Glutathione is essential for various bodily functions, and an imbalance can lead to several health issues. Increasing Glutathione levels by infusing it directly helps maintain adequate levels in the body. Given below are some of the Glutathione IV benefits:

• Prevents Chronic Illness:

The powerful antioxidant properties of Glutathione fight free radicals and detoxify your body to prevent chronic illnesses like Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, autoimmune diseases, etc. [1]

• Enhances Immune Function:

Glutathione protects cells from oxidative stress and regulates immune responses. This ensures efficient detoxification, cytokine production, and tissue repair. [2]

• Reduces Inflammation:

Oxidative stress triggers inflammation. Glutathione’s antioxidant properties combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, reducing the risk of developing chronic illnesses caused by inflammation.

• Delays Ageing Process:

The antioxidant properties in Glutathione neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, protecting cells and tissues from damage. This ultimately slows down the ageing process. [3]

• Aids Weight Loss:

Glutathione helps burn fat cells and detoxifies the liver, resulting in significant weight loss. [4]

• Boosts Athletic Performance:

Glutathione boosts muscle recovery after a heavy workout for uninterrupted training sessions. It enhances strength and endurance and also reduces the risk of injuries.

• Improves Sleep Quality

Sleep and Glutathione go hand in hand. While sleep accelerates Glutathione production, good levels of Glutathione improve sleep quality. [5] During deep sleep, the body engages in the repair and regeneration process, and Glutathione plays a vital role in this cellular repair.

• Boosts Skin Health

Glutathione reduces melanin production, which gives your skin an even tone. It also reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

• Improves Insulin Sensitivity:

Insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes. People with insulin resistance tend to have low Glutathione levels. Glutathione IV helps in improving insulin sensitivity. [6]

• Boosts Liver Health:

Glutathione IV drip boosts the ability of the liver to detoxify the body. It helps the liver break down and flush out toxic substances like alcohol and drugs and protects it from damage. [7]

What Is The Difference Between Glutathione IV and Glutathione Injection?

The significant difference between Glutathione injection and Glutathione IV is how it is infused into the body. The other Glutathione Vs IV are:

• Doctors administer Glutathione IV directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous drip, whereas Glutathione injection is a single shot infused directly into the muscle. Injection may not retain the increased levels of Glutathione in the bloodstream as long as IV.
• Due to the slow drip process, the Glutathione IV takes longer, typically 30 minutes to one hour, while the Glutathione injection takes just a few seconds.

How Does Glutathione IV Drip Work for Skin Whitening?

Dermatologists widely use Glutathione to treat various skin-related issues. A Glutathione IV drip [8] delivers the antioxidant directly into the bloodstream for maximum absorption. It reduces the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, leading to lighter skin. As a result, the intravenous route ensures higher bioavailability than oral supplements.

What Is The Recommended Glutathione IV Dosage for Skin Whitening?

The recommended dosage of IV Glutathione for skin whitening ranges from 10 to 20mg per kilogram of body weight. Dermatologists often suggest administering the total dosage in multiple sessions rather than taking a single shot for optimal benefits.

What To Do Before Taking Glutathione IV?

Before taking Glutathione IV, you should:

• Consult a dermatologist to ensure the treatment is appropriate for you.
• Discuss the potential benefits and risks.
• Provide a medical history, including existing medical conditions, allergies, and current medications.
• Get a thorough medical assessment done to rule out any underlying medical issues.
• Stay hydrated.

What To Avoid When Taking Glutathione IV?

You should avoid the following during Glutathione IV therapy:

• Alcohol consumption
• Processed foods
• Foods high in sugar
• Unhealthy fats
• Artificial additives
• Too much caffeine
• Fried foods

How Much Is Glutathione IV Price In India?

The IV Glutathione price in India varies from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 30,000/- per session. It depends on factors like the Glutathione brand and quality, the medical facility, the expertise of the dermatologist, and the treatment protocol.

Factors Affecting The Glutathione IV Price?

The factors affecting the IV Glutathione price are:

• Location: The price depends on the city or region you are undergoing the treatment. It may be higher in metropolitan cities than in small towns.
• Brand and Quality of Glutathione: The cost varies with the brand and composition. High-quality and imported brands are usually more expensive than local brands.
• Medical Facilities: The clinic/hospital chosen for the treatment determines the price. A reputed clinic/hospital with experienced and skilled dermatologists may charge more for the procedure.
• Sessions: Doctors may recommend a series of sessions to achieve visible results. The cost depends on the total number of sessions.

What Are The Side Effects of Glutathione IV Therapy?

Glutathione IV therapy is generally safe for adults. However, people may notice minor side effects like bloating and cramping. Moreover, prolonged use of Glutathione showed depleted zinc levels in some individuals. Administering more than 5g of Glutathione may manifest in the following side effects:

• Nausea:

This occurs as a reaction to the chemical composition of Glutathione and its impact on the stomach lining.

• Diarrhoea:

The Glutathione infusion impacts the gut microbiome, leading to increased bowel movements or loose stools.

• Allergic Reactions:

When the body becomes hypersensitive to the compound, it triggers an immune response, resulting in itching, swelling, and hives.

• Dizziness:

Glutathione can influence blood pressure levels in some individuals. When blood pressure decreases, it restricts blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain, causing dizziness.

• Affects Kidney Function:

The kidney plays a vital role in flushing out excess water, waste products, and other impurities from the blood. IV Glutathione constantly filters these impurities from the blood, potentially straining the kidney.

What Are The Before And After Results Expected From Glutathione IV?

The results of taking Glutathione IV are not visible overnight. The timeline for visible skin-lightening effects varies depending on your skin tone, taking about three weeks to become noticeable. However, factors like overall health, metabolism, and post-therapy care significantly influence the treatment’s effectiveness and outcome.

Is Glutathione IV FDA Approved?

No, the FDA has not approved Glutathione IV treatment. Currently, there are no established guidelines for the precise Glutathione IV dosage for skin whitening, nor is there any definitive recommendation regarding the treatment duration. The FDA prioritises safety and efficacy and has not approved any injectable product for skin whitening. [9]

Alternatives For Glutathione IV For Skin

The alternatives for Glutathione IV for skin whitening are:

Chemical Peels:

Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess melanin, often triggered by sunburn, acne breakouts, hormonal changes, and more. Chemical peels offer a solution by exfoliating the top layer of the skin with excess melanin. This process unveils brighter skin with improved and radiant skin tone. As the skin regenerates, it becomes smoother, even textured and hydrated.

Laser Toning:

In the laser toning treatment procedure, the dermatologist directs a laser beam on the affected area to target the top layer of the skin and remove the damaged skin. As the upper layer of the skin peels, your skin appears smoother, and the scar becomes less visible. When the laser beam penetrates deep into the skin, it stimulates collagen production, rejuvenating and renewing the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions On Glutathione IV Drip

Q1. How long does Glutathione IV take to work?

A1. It may take about three weeks for Glutathione IV to work. However, the results depend on the number of sessions taken and your metabolism.

Q2. How often should you do IV Glutathione?

A2. IV Glutathione can be administered 1 to 3 times weekly for 4 to 9 weeks, as your dermatologist advises.

Q3. How long does a Glutathione IV last?

A3. The benefits of Glutathione IV can extend for months post-procedure. It improves overall health and prevents autoimmune diseases for the duration of its efficacy.

Q4. What to expect after Glutathione IV treatment?

A4. You may experience mild pain and discomfort after receiving glutathione IV. However, after the IV sessions, you will notice a significant improvement in your overall health.

Q5. Who cannot take Glutathione IV drip?

A5. Glutathione IV drip is not advisable for individuals with medical conditions like kidney or liver diseases and asthma. Pregnant or nursing women should consult their doctor before undergoing Glutathione IV drip therapy.

Q6. Is glutathione IV drip safe?

A6. Glutathione IV drip is safe when administered according to the recommended dosage. However, there have been instances where individuals experienced cramping, bloating, and depleted zinc levels.

Q7. Are Glutathione IV results permanent?

A7. No. Glutathione IV results are not permanent. Continued treatment is necessary to maintain the skin tone.

Q8. What happens if I stop taking Glutathione IV?

A8. Discontinuing Glutathione IV will make the skin revert to its original colour.

Q9. Will my skin get darker if I stop taking Glutathione?

A9. No. If you stop taking Glutathione, your skin will revert to its normal colour but not get darker.

Q10. How many sessions for IV Glutathione to see results?

A10. The number of IV Glutathione sessions required depends on how light you want your skin to be. One treatment round of 10 IVs can lighten your skin to 1 to 3 shades.