Evidence supporting the use of: L-glutathione
For the health condition: Nerve Damage

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

L-glutathione is a tripeptide composed of glutamine, cysteine, and glycine, and functions as a key intracellular antioxidant. Its use in nerve damage (neuropathy) is primarily supported by limited scientific evidence rather than tradition. Research has explored glutathione’s potential role in mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are implicated in nerve injury and neurodegenerative diseases. Several small studies, particularly in patients with diabetic neuropathy and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), have reported that intravenous glutathione may reduce symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling. For example, a few clinical trials have shown that glutathione administration can modestly improve nerve conduction and decrease neuropathic symptoms in patients undergoing chemotherapy. The proposed mechanism is that glutathione’s antioxidant properties help neutralize reactive oxygen species and support neuronal survival. However, the overall quality and size of these studies are limited, and results are sometimes inconsistent. Most research has focused on intravenous, not oral, glutathione, and there is a lack of large, well-controlled trials. There is also no strong historical or traditional use of glutathione for nerve damage; its application in this context is a relatively modern development grounded in its biochemical properties and emerging, though still preliminary, clinical findings. In conclusion, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence for glutathione's use in supporting nerve health and treating certain types of nerve damage, the evidence is not yet robust. Further large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to establish its efficacy and safety for this indication.

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