The Department of Health (DOH) has taken a firm stance against the use of glutathione for skin whitening purposes. In a recent statement dated February 24, the DOH emphasized that it does not endorse the utilization of injectable glutathione for achieving lighter skin tones. This declaration, backed by a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) circular, underscores the absence of published clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of glutathione injections for skin lightening.
Highlighting a crucial point, the DOH pointed out the lack of established guidelines about appropriate dosages and treatment durations for injectable glutathione. It emphasized that while injectable glutathione is approved as an adjunct treatment in cisplatin chemotherapy for specific cancer types, its usage for cosmetic purposes lacks regulatory support.
Moreover, the DOH reiterated the importance of physicians adhering to their professional licenses granted by the Professional Regulation Commission. It emphasized that once a prescription drug receives FDA approval, the regulation of physicians’ prescription practices falls outside the purview of the FDA.
In light of concerns regarding potential adverse effects, the DOH urged the public to promptly seek medical attention and report any encountered side effects from using injectable glutathione or other medications to the FDA. Additionally, individuals who believe they have been wrongly prescribed injectable glutathione were advised to seek legal counsel or contact the Public Attorney’s Office for assistance.
This statement from the DOH follows a recent incident involving Mariel Rodriguez, the spouse of Senator Robin Padilla, who shared a now-deleted Instagram post depicting her receiving an intravenous drip session in her husband’s Senate office. Rodriguez claimed various benefits from the session, including collagen production, skin whitening, increased energy, improved metabolism, and enhanced immunity.
However, her actions drew criticism from several quarters, with some condemning the perceived impropriety of conducting such sessions in a prestigious government building. In response to the backlash, Rodriguez issued a public apology via Facebook Live, clarifying that she received Vitamin C, not glutathione, during the session. She emphasized that her intention was not to disparage the Senate’s integrity or dignity.
The DOH’s firm stance against the use of glutathione for skin whitening underscores the need for evidence-based practices and regulatory oversight in cosmetic procedures to ensure public safety and well-being.