Antioxidant
Glutathione (Reduced Form)
Also known as: L-glutathione, GSH, reduced glutathione, gamma-glutamylcysteinylglycine
Reduced glutathione is a tripeptide antioxidant produced endogenously that plays a critical role in cellular detoxification and redox balance. Oral bioavailability is very limited due to degradation in the gastrointestinal tract, making supplementation efficacy questionable for systemic glutathione status.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Glutathione (Reduced Form) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne SynaQuell +™ | 88 A | $1.47 |
| 2 | Thorne Glutathione-SR | 86 A- | $0.90 |
| 3 | Thorne MediClear-SGS™ - Vanilla | 86 A- | $2.10 |
| 4 | Pure Encapsulations Reduced Glutathione | 86 A- | $0.49 |
| 5 | Jarrow Formulas Glutathione Reduced | 86 A- | $0.67 |
| 6 | Nutricost Glutathione Capsules | 86 A- | $0.18 |
| 7 | Double Wood Liposomal Glutathione Supplement | 86 A- | $1.00 |
| 8 | Nordic Naturals Omega Curcumin | 82 A- | $1.50 |
| 9 | BioSchwartz Glutathione Complex Capsules | 82 A- | $0.80 |
| 10 | NOW Foods Clinical Strength Ocu Support | 81 A- | $0.73 |
| 11 | Thorne Daily Greens Plus | 79 B+ | $0.83 |
| 12 | Vital Nutrients Glutathione 400mg | 79 B+ | $1.66 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Glutathione (Reduced Form) should I take?
The typical range is 250-1500 mg daily. Ongoing use is typical for those seeking antioxidant support; no established maximum duration
When should I take Glutathione (Reduced Form)?
Morning on empty stomach may improve absorption slightly. With food may reduce absorption; optimal timing unclear due to low bioavailability.
Which form of Glutathione (Reduced Form) is best?
Powder. Other forms in the catalog: Capsule, Liposomal, Sublingual.
Is Glutathione (Reduced Form) safe?
Commonly reported: Generally well-tolerated at typical doses, Mild nausea or abdominal discomfort (rare), Headache (rare).
Which Glutathione (Reduced Form) supplement scores highest?
Thorne SynaQuell +™, at 88/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Antioxidant support
- Cellular detoxification
- Immune function support
- Oxidative stress reduction
How it works
- Acts as a direct free radical scavenger and reduces oxidative stress
- Cofactor for glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase enzymes
- Supports cellular redox homeostasis
- May enhance detoxification pathways
Dosage
- Typical range
- 250-1500 mg daily
- Timing
- Morning on empty stomach may improve absorption slightly
- With food
- With food may reduce absorption; optimal timing unclear due to low bioavailability
- Duration
- Ongoing use is typical for those seeking antioxidant support; no established maximum duration
- Special populations
- Pregnant/nursing women should consult healthcare provider; those with severe liver disease should use cautiously
Forms
- Powder· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
- Liposomal· 70/100
- Sublingual· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated at typical doses
- Mild nausea or abdominal discomfort (rare)
- Headache (rare)
Contraindications
- High doses may theoretically interact with chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- Caution in individuals with cystinuria
Products containing Glutathione (Reduced Form)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Glutathione (Reduced Form) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
While glutathione's biological role is well-established, oral supplementation has limited evidence for systemic bioavailability and clinical efficacy. Most studies using glutathione were IV or inhaled; oral studies show minimal absorption. Grade C reflects preliminary evidence for oral form specifically.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
Related in Antioxidant
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.