Use of intravenous glutathione for skin whitening not FDA approved yet: DOH
The Department of Health (DOH) warned about the use of intravenous glutathione for skin whitening as it has not been approved yet by the Food and Drug Administration.
Health secretary Ted Herbosa reminded the public of this in a media forum on Jan. 16.
"Gusto ko sanang i-reiterate... as of now, ang FDA hindi pa po [in-a-approve] ang use ng intravenous glutathione as a skin whitening," he said.
On Jan. 9, a 39-year-old woman died in a hospital in Quezon City hours after undergoing stem cell therapy. The cause of her demise, according to her death certificate, is anaphylactic shock but the antecedent cause is glutathione and stem cell intravenous infusion, as per a Philippine STAR report.
Herbosa also added that the public should check licensed stem cell therapy clinics to avoid risks.
"Babala sa ating mga kababayan para hindi kayo mauwi sa ganito—sa morgue—a sa inyong pagpapaganda, pagpapabata, i-check po sa [DOH] website 'yung listahan ng mga stem cell clinic na lisensyado," he said.
Glutathione is an antioxidant produced in cells made up of amino acids. According to Medical News Today it serves functions such as making DNA, supporting immune functions, regenerating vitamins C and E, and helping the liver and gallbladder. It is also believed to aid skin whitening, anti-aging, and liver and heart disease.
Although it is produced by the body naturally, glutathione can be taken orally, topically, or intravenously.
In the past, the FDA has issued warnings about using intravenous glutathione through Advisory No. 2019-182 as there are no published clinical trials evaluating its use for skin lightening.
"The FDA has not approved any injectable products for skin lightening. Injectable glutathione is approved by FDA Philippines as an adjunct treatment in cisplatin chemotherapy," the statement read.
The institution also listed some risks that come with this including toxic effects on the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.