Synopsis

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

L-glutathione is an antioxidant that has attracted interest for its potential in managing peripheral neuropathy, particularly neuropathy associated with diabetes and chemotherapy. The scientific basis stems primarily from glutathione's role in counteracting oxidative stress, which is thought to contribute to the nerve damage seen in peripheral neuropathy. Some small, early-phase clinical studies and case reports (particularly in chemotherapy-induced neuropathy) have suggested that intravenous glutathione may help alleviate symptoms such as pain, tingling, and numbness. For example, several pilot studies in cancer patients receiving platinum-based chemotherapies have reported reduced severity or incidence of neuropathy with glutathione administration. However, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, short follow-up durations, and lack of large, well-controlled clinical trials. There is also little data supporting oral glutathione for this purpose, as its bioavailability is relatively low. Most of the available data concerns intravenous administration, which is not commonly available outside specialized clinics. Despite these limitations, mechanistic studies support the plausibility of glutathione’s role due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Major scientific and medical organizations do not currently recommend glutathione as standard therapy for peripheral neuropathy, but ongoing research may clarify its potential. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence, robust scientific validation is lacking, and the overall evidence level is low (rated 2 out of 5).

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