A woman shared her harrowing experience after a glutathione drip session allegedly led to an infection, causing vision problems and hospitalization.
Jelly Macha took to social media to detail her ordeal, saying the procedure was poorly performed. “Hindi marunong ‘yung nurse na nagturok sa akin. Una siyang nagturok sa akin dito [right hand], sinagad niya ‘yung pinaka-needle and pumutok agad ugat ko. Nag-try ulit rito [left hand] and then pumutok uli,” she said.
Two days later, Macha experienced severe pain and vomiting, prompting her to seek emergency care. Her ophthalmologist later confirmed an infection that affected the nerve in one of her eyes, impairing her vision. While her condition has improved, she is still recovering. “Medyo nao-open ko na siya pero… tatlo pa rin ang paningin ko,” she explained in a GMA News report.
Experts clarified that intravenous (IV) glutathione itself does not typically cause eye infections unless the drug, needle, or equipment used is contaminated. “Generally, IV drugs, gluta for example, do not cause eye infection except kung contaminated ‘yung drug or ‘yung ginamit,” said Dr. Itos Yutangco, an ophthalmologist.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also reiterated that glutathione is not approved as a skin-whitening agent. “We consider it as cancer medicine. Kung ginagamit siya na pampaputi, definitely hindi po ‘yan aprubado,” said FDA spokesperson Atty. Pam Sevilla.
Medical professionals further warned about the risks of unregulated glutathione use, including kidney failure, serious allergic reactions, and other complications. Philippine Dermatological Society president Dr. Jasmin Jamora highlighted that IV glutathione is only approved for managing chemotherapy side effects, not for aesthetic purposes.
The Department of Health and FDA continue to crack down on illegal whitening products, having seized P20 million worth of unregistered items since 2019. Authorities urge the public to be cautious and consult licensed professionals when considering any IV treatments.
