Glutathione injections have faster results, but take a higher risk: Dermatologists warn against side effects

The unexpected death of Indian actor Shefari Jaliwara at age 42 prompted discussions about the dangers associated with glutathione injections, which are used to brighten the skin. According to media reports, Shefari – gained fame through dance video “Kaanta Laga” and Bigg Boss 13 – On June 27, 2025, she received glutathione IV treatment as part of her anti-aging routine prior to her death. The exact circumstances of her death are under investigation. Early findings suggest possible links to hypotension, cardiac arrest, and gastric complications, suggesting that they are potentially exacerbated by fasted anti-aging (glutathione) injections. The incident put Glutathion in the spotlight.

What is glutathione?

Glutathione is a skin lighting agent. It has antioxidant properties that can protect you from damage caused by free radicals. It detoxifies the body and protects against cell damage.

It is a natural antioxidant made up of three amino acids: glutamine, cysteine and glycine. As mentioned in the journal, it plays an important role in maintaining cell health by supporting detoxification, boosting immune function and reducing oxidative stress. Antioxidants.

Glutathione itself is a well-tolerated antioxidant, but problems arise when problems are collected inappropriately or combined with other drugs. This may have been concern for Shefari Jaliwara’s death, as doctors point out that multiple drugs during the fasting could have caused a sudden vasodilation reaction or cardiac stress.

In light of this, Health Shot interviewed Dermatologist About Dr. Sunil Torat Importance Maintaining health and safety when selecting skin care treatments, particularly those with glutathione injections.

Excerpts from the interview:

Q. Can you explain how glutathione affects skin pigmentation and tension?

Dr. Sunil Torat: Glutathione plays an important role in melanogenesis by regulating several important biochemical mechanisms. It lowers the oxidation level of tyrosinase, an important enzyme involved in melanin production. It also helps to detoxify foreign chemicals that expose your skin, as stated in International Journal of Environmental Studies and Public Health. In Shefari, the combination of glutathione and vitamin C has been shown to affect blood pressure and immune system.

Q. Are there any specific skin types or conditions that benefit particularly from glutathione treatment?

Dr. Sunil Torat: Glutathione is recognized as one of the most effective anti-aging skin care ingredients. It is popular as an antioxidant that illuminates the skin. Fitzpatrick skin types III to V to V (individuals who are prone to pigmentation) often benefit most from glutathione-based treatments. According to the journal, it fights oxidative stress and strengthens the body’s defense system Antioxidants.

Q. What form can glutathione be used in dermatologically? Also, how do they compare their effectiveness?

Dr. Sunil Torat: Mainly, glutathione is available in three major forms of skincare: oral tablets, topical creams, and injectable shots. Glutathione injections provide faster results, but increase the risk of side effects. Oral supplements are considered safer but slower. When used consistently, topicals gently help with pigmentation. As the report suggests, if Shefari was using injections, her body may have responded sharply, especially during the fasting. Injections are effective, but are not wary without supervision. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Q. What are the potential benefits of topical glutathione for treating skin conditions such as melasma and hyperpigmentation?

Dr. Sunil Torat: It is popular for treating melasma and hyperpigmentation as it helps keep the skin healthy by reducing the stress caused by contamination and sunlight damage. The use of glutathione helps reduce the appearance of dark circles. However, excessive use can cause a reaction and may have occurred in Shefari’s case.

Q. How does glutathione contribute to the body’s antioxidant defense system?

Dr. Sunil Torat: Glutathione is an antioxidant found in our cells. Protects the body by neutralizing harmful substances. It also keeps the skin healthy, slows aging, and enhances overall cellular function. However, there may be potential side effects of glutathione under certain conditions. She may have lowered her blood pressure as she took the medication on an empty stomach. This indicates that even beneficial substances such as glutathione must be used with caution under medical supervision.

Q. Are there any side effects or risks related to glutathione treatment?

Dr. Sunil Torat: Glutathione is generally safe at moderate doses, but glutathione injections carry several risks. Fasting, dehydration, or combination with other drugs can lead to a sudden reduction in blood pressure or allergic reactions. The sudden collapse of Shefari highlights the dangers of glutathione under certain conditions.

Q. Can glutathione levels be measured using skin tests or are blood tests more appropriate?

Dr. Sunil Torat: There are no reliable skin tests for glutathione. Only a blood test can show your body the actual level. Skin tone and appearance are not reliable indicators of your identity. Blood tests can measure both reduced and oxidized glutathione to accurately assess antioxidant status, as shared in the journal molecule.

Q. What questions should patients ask their dermatologist before starting glutathione-based treatment?

Dr. Sunil Torat: Consider asking these questions before treatment.

• Do I need a blood test first?
• Is glutathione safe for my current blood levels and health?
• Should I take glutathione verbally, topically, or through injection?
• What precautions should you pay for the food?

Q. How does diet affect glutathione levels in the body, and which foods are recommended to naturally enhance production?

Dr. Sunil Torat: Glutathione is naturally produced in the body, and diet plays an important role in increasing levels. Sulfur-rich foods such as garlic, onions, broccoli, spinach, turmeric and walnuts help to build glutathione. Fruits rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and berries, also support their activities according to their nutritional sources. Click to learn more about glutathione-rich foods.