The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) says glutathione is not FDA-approved for post-exposure firefighter detoxification, while recent recalls have raised concerns over contamination and serious adverse reactions.
Firefighters are being warned against using glutathione treatments marketed for wildfire smoke, PFAS and other occupational exposures after the IAFF said there is no published scientific evidence that the supplement reduces “forever chemical” levels or oxidative stress linked to firefighting.
The International Association of Fire Fighters issued a safety advisory cautioning members that glutathione is not an FDA-approved drug for post-exposure firefighter detoxification in the United States. The union said there has been no formal review confirming that the treatment is safe and effective for that purpose, no requirement to report harmful side effects in the same way as approved drugs, and no FDA review of marketing claims or product labels for accuracy.
Glutathione has been offered to some wildland firefighters through IV infusion or nebulized delivery after smoke exposure, including during recent fires near Spokane, Washington. Supporters have described anecdotal relief from symptoms after breathing toxic smoke, but the IAFF and medical experts said such accounts do not establish whether the treatment works or whether it is safe.
Fire & Safety Journals Americas
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