Are Glutathione Injections The New Botox—Or A Hidden Health Risk? Explained

Last Updated:July 01, 2025, 08:39 IST

IV infusions, especially when taken without cardiac screening, can cause electrolyte imbalances, hypotension, and may even trigger cardiac events in vulnerable patients

The most popular anti-ageing therapies include retinoids, chemical peels, botox, dermal fillers, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and glutathione. (Pixabay Image for Representation)

The chase for perfect skin is taking a bold new turn, with glutathione injections emerging as the latest rage in anti-ageing and skin-lightening therapies. Once reserved for niche clientele, the powerful antioxidant, glutathione, is rapidly catching on among urban wellness seekers. But behind the promise of fairness, glow and youth lies a lesser-known risk—potential cardiac complications.

The sudden cardiac arrest of actress and model Shefali Jariwala has reignited public scrutiny around the growing use of intravenous beauty therapies like glutathione and NAD drips—widely popular in the entertainment industry. News18 spoke to multiple experts to know what dosage of glutathione is too much and when the beauty booster turns into a silent killer.

What is glutathione and why is everyone talking about it?

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant naturally produced by the body. It helps neutralise free radicals, detoxify the liver, and support immune function. But, in recent years, it has been aggressively marketed in aesthetic clinics for skin lightening and anti-ageing, especially via intravenous (IV) infusions.

ALSO READ | Shefali Jariwala Was Self-Medicating, Collapsed Before Being Rushed To Hospital: Sources

“The trend has seen a sharp uptick in the last few years, largely fuelled by social media," said Dr Shankar Sawant, consultant dermatologist at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim–Fortis Associate.

“People want instant glow and fairness. While glutathione works as an antioxidant, patients often demand doses three to four times higher than normal for visible whitening results. That’s where the concerns begin."

He explains that while glutathione is generally safe in controlled doses (typically 20–40 mg per kg of body weight per day), high doses can affect the cardiovascular system, triggering arrhythmias or blood pressure drops, especially in patients with undiagnosed cardiac conditions. Allergic reactions are also not uncommon.

“It’s important to remember that glutathione is not medically approved for skin whitening, only as an antioxidant. Those with cardiac issues should avoid IV infusions unless under strict medical supervision," he adds.

Inside the anti-ageing toolkit

According to Dr Vichitra Sharma, senior consultant, dermatologist at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, the most popular anti-ageing therapies include retinoids, chemical peels, botox, dermal fillers, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and glutathione.

While retinoids are used for enhancing skin cell turnover and reducing fine lines, chemical peels improve texture and tone. Botox is known for softening expression lines by relaxing muscles and dermal fillers restore volume and contour.

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatment uses the patient’s blood to boost collagen whereas glutathione is used intravenously for skin brightening.

“These treatments work on different layers of the skin and must be prescribed based on individual concerns. A medically guided, customised plan is essential for safety and results," Sharma emphasises.

Safe for heart?

Dr Ashish Kumar, senior consultant, cardiology at Amrita Hospital, warns against unmonitored use of glutathione and other IV drips in aesthetic settings.

“IV infusions, especially when taken without cardiac screening, can cause electrolyte imbalances, hypotension, and may even trigger cardiac events in vulnerable patients. The danger is often not the compound itself, but its misuse—high doses, fasting states, or concurrent medication use."

Many people receiving these treatments may not be aware they have underlying conditions like arrhythmias or coronary artery disease—which increases the risk.

The bigger trend: Enter NAD therapy

While glutathione has dominated the aesthetic market over the past few years, a newer trend is rapidly emerging: NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) therapy.

Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, a popular celebrity dermatologist based in South Delhi, says NAD is now the hottest buzzword in the anti-ageing space.

“NAD drips are over 35 years old but have become the biggest trend recently. They are believed to enhance energy, improve metabolism, and support cellular repair. Many in the entertainment industry opt for it regularly. While I was not treating Shefali Jariwala, it’s well known that many celebrities take NAD drips."

She adds that glutathione was the go-to treatment for almost a decade now, but the demand has exploded only in the last 3–4 years. “Anti-ageing, when done correctly, should not cause death. These treatments can even be cardio protective. The real danger lies in fake products or poorly supervised clinics. For instance, if someone is fasting, receives a drip, and then exercises without eating, it can cause a sudden blood pressure to drop and a possible cardiac event," she explains.

While glutathione and NAD therapies are becoming the go-to for cosmetic enhancement, experts agree on one thing: these are not risk-free beauty shortcuts. The treatments must be conducted under medical supervision, with careful screening of patient history, dosage, and duration.

Without regulation, fake products, overuse, and wrong timing can turn a seemingly harmless glow-up into a serious health threat.

Himani Chandna

Himani Chandna, Associate Editor at CNN News18, specialises in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. With firsthand insights into India's COVID-19 battle, she brings a seasoned perspective. She is particularly pass...Read More

Himani Chandna, Associate Editor at CNN News18, specialises in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. With firsthand insights into India's COVID-19 battle, she brings a seasoned perspective. She is particularly pass...

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