Over 30 people poisoned by bacterial toxins from IV glutathione drips at wellness clinics

Bacterial Poisoning from IV Drips

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that over 30 people in four states have suffered bacterial toxin poisoning. These individuals received intravenous (IV) drips at wellness clinics, which contained glutathione.

Improper Ingredient Sourcing

The glutathione used in these IV drips was sourced from powders graded for dietary supplements taken orally, not for sterile injectable drugs. Compounding pharmacies prepared these IV products using this inappropriate grade of glutathione. The FDA identified at least two compounding pharmacies involved in this practice.

Glutathione and its Use

Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant, often promoted for detoxification, immune support, and other benefits without scientific evidence. While it is commonly available in oral supplement form, there are no FDA-approved glutathione products for medical use in the US. The product involved in the poisonings appeared to be from Medisca Inc., which had labeled it as dietary supplement grade.

Regulatory Response and Warnings

The FDA announced its findings late last month, confirming reports of illnesses linked to these IV drips. Medisca Inc. stated it had informed its pharmacy customers not to use their dietary supplement-grade glutathione for injectable drugs. This incident underscores the dangers of using non-pharmaceutical grade ingredients in medical applications.