DOH doesn't support glutathione for skin whitening
The Department of Health (DOH) said it doesn’t support the use of glutathione for skin whitening.
In a statement on Feb. 24, the DOH, citing a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) circular, “categorically” stated that there are no published clinical trials that have evaluated the use of injectable glutathione for skin lightening.
“There are also no published guidelines for appropriate dosing regimens and duration of treatment,” it added.
It noted that injectable glutathione is approved as an adjunct treatment, or an addition to the main one, in cisplatin chemotherapy, which is used to treat cancer of the bladder, ovaries, or testicles.
The DOH noted that once the FDA has approved a prescription drug for entry into the market, they cannot regulate the practice of doctors prescribing the drug.
Additionally, the DOH reminded doctors about the importance of adhering to their license granted by the Professional Regulation Commission.
The agency urged the public to seek immediate medical attention and report any side effects experienced from using injectable glutathione and other drugs to the FDA.
In cases where individuals believe they have been wrongly prescribed injectable glutathione, the DOH advised consulting a lawyer or reaching out to the Public Attorney’s Office.
The DOH issued this statement following an incident involving Mariel Rodriguez, the wife of Senator Robin Padilla, who shared a now-deleted Instagram post depicting her receiving an intravenous drip session in her husband’s office at the Senate.
Rodriguez claimed the session was 'convenient and effective,' citing benefits such as collagen production, skin whitening, increased energy, improved metabolism, and enhanced immunity.
Several users criticized her for the “inappropriate” act in a prestigious building.
Following the backlash, Rodriguez on Facebook Live issued a public apology, though clarified that she received Vitamin C, not glutathione. She also noted that she never intended "to malign nor undermine the integrity and dignity of the Senate."
According to WebMD, glutathione, which is produced by the liver, is a substance made from the amino acids glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid.
It’s involved in tissue building and repair, making chemicals and proteins needed in the body, and in immune system function.
The website noted that there’s no good scientific evidence to support the use of glutathione for aging, alcohol use disorder, liver disease, and heart disease.