Officials warn wildland firefighters about the risks of using the supplement glutathione for smoke exposure
Summary
Fire and medical officials warned Western wildland firefighters about using the supplement glutathione for smoke exposure. The supplement has not been proven safe or effective and can cause illness if contaminated. Some firefighters have used it during recent wildfires, but experts urge caution.Key Facts
- Glutathione is given to firefighters by IV or a nebulizer (a machine that lets you breathe in medicine).
- The supplement is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Two pharmacies recalled glutathione in August due to bacterial contamination.
- Some people who used the recalled supplement reported symptoms like fever, chills, and headaches.
- Firefighter union IAFF issued a safety advisory warning about unproven health claims of glutathione.
- The supplement was offered at recent wildfires in Spokane, Washington, and used in past California fires.
- Some firefighters said glutathione helped them, but others reported feeling worse after using it.
- Experts say more research and testing are needed to confirm the safety and benefits of glutathione for firefighters.
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