Officials warn wildland firefighters about the risks of using the supplement glutathione for smoke exposure

Key Points:

• Fire and medical officials have warned against the use of the supplement glutathione, administered via IV or nebulizer, for Western wildland firefighters exposed to toxic chemicals, citing lack of proven safety and effectiveness and risks of contamination.
• At least two pharmacies recalled glutathione products in August due to bacterial contamination, with reports of adverse symptoms including fever, chills, and severe headaches among users.
• The supplement was offered during recent major wildfires in Spokane and previously in California, promoted by a naturopathic group despite no clinical evidence supporting its health claims; some firefighters report feeling better, while others experienced worsening symptoms.
• Experts emphasize that glutathione's antioxidant properties have biological plausibility for mitigating oxidative stress from wildfire smoke but caution its use without rigorous clinical studies, warning of potential airway constriction and serious reactions from contaminated products.
• Firefighters face significant health risks from inhaling wildfire smoke containing toxic chemicals, and medical treatments like glutathione require thorough evaluation to prevent unintended harm, according to the International Association of Firefighters and medical professionals.