Health experts issue warning against use of injectable glutathione

National

THE Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) issued a stern warning about the dangers of injectable glutathione for skin whitening, emphasizing that it is not approved by local authorities and could lead to severe health complications.

Dr. Jasmin Jamora, president of the PDS, reiterated that there is no scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of glutathione, either in oral or intravenous (IV) forms, for lightening the skin.

Despite its popularity, Jamora pointed out that users may only be wasting their time and money on ineffective products.

She emphasized at a news conference in Quezon City that until now, despite careful and thorough studies, they cannot find evidence on the efficacy of glutathione on skin whitening.

She added that what their studies found is that it is not cost-effective, its supposed effects are not long-lasting and there are also increasing reports of serious adverse effects.

Jamora’s warning follows a viral TikTok video shared on Saturday, in which a woman from Batangas claimed she could barely open her right eye due to an infection after undergoing an IV glutathione session.

Injecting glutathione directly into the bloodstream carries serious risks, according to Jamora.

The procedure exposes the body to high doses of chemicals, which can lead to kidney failure, gastritis, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and even anaphylactic shock—an allergic reaction that can be fatal.

These risks are compounded when non-medical professionals oversee the treatments.

The PDS urged the public to consult board-certified dermatologists before using any skin-brightening products.

In response, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned that individuals and establishments selling injectable glutathione for skin whitening could face fines of up to P100,000 or imprisonment.(CMM)