What is Glutathione?
Glutathione (GSH) is a master antioxidant in the body that supports detoxification, immune balance, and cell protection. Long COVID may deplete glutathione due to ongoing oxidative stress and inflammation, making it a focus of recovery strategies. NAC (N-acetylcysteine) and ALA (alpha-lipoic acid) are often combined with glutathione to increase its production. These compounds are available in multiple forms. Glutathione comes as oral capsules, sublingual tablets, liposomal liquids, or IV (intravenous) infusions. NAC is usually taken orally, but can also be inhaled or given IV. ALA is commonly taken by mouth or administered intravenously in clinical settings.
How Glutathione Helps with Long COVID
- Reduces Oxidative Stress – Glutathione helps neutralize oxidants produced during chronic inflammation, which is thought to contribute to Long COVID symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and pain.
- Synergistic Effects with NAC and ALA – NAC provides the raw material (cysteine) needed to make glutathione, while ALA helps regenerate both glutathione and other antioxidants like vitamin C and E. Together, they support detoxification and reduce inflammation at the cellular level.
What the Research Says
Early research suggests that alpha-lipoic acid, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) may help relieve common Long COVID symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and pain—especially by supporting cellular energy and antioxidant defenses While more research is needed, current studies and reviews point to their potential as supportive tools in post-COVID recovery.
Key Studies on Glutathione and Long COVID:
Studies showing positive effects:
- This study evaluated 174 Long COVID patients and found that daily supplementation with CoQ10 (100 mg) + alpha-lipoic acid (100 mg) for 2 months significantly reduced fatigue, pain, and sleep disturbances. A full fatigue response was achieved in 53.5% of the treatment group.
- This study found that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplementation (600–1200 mg twice daily) improved shortness of breath, brain fog, and fatigue in 3 out of 3 gynecologic Long COVID patients and, suggesting a potential role for NAC in reversing microclot (tiny blood clots that block oxygen from getting to your tissues) related symptoms.
Articles discussing theoretical benefits:
- This study reviewed the role of alpha-lipoic acid in reducing oxidative stress and improving blood vessel function during COVID-19. It discussed how ALA supports glutathione regeneration, modulates inflammation, and protects against vascular damage.
- This study reviewed how glutathione deficiency contributes to severe COVID-19 and immune dysfunction. It explained how low GSH levels impair antioxidant defenses, increase cytokine (inflammatory compound) production, and promote blood clot formation and viral infection. The study suggests restoring glutathione through supplementation or NAC may help prevent or manage Long COVID by reducing chronic inflammation.
- This study reviewed the multifaceted therapeutic potential of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in COVID-19. It found that NAC may help reduce viral replication, suppress inflammatory cytokines, improve immune cell function, and protect lung tissue. Clinical data showed that intravenous and inhaled NAC improved oxygenation and lowered inflammatory markers in severe COVID-19, supporting its possible benefit in Long COVID recovery.
- This study reviewed the role of glutathione in preventing COVID-19 blood clot formation. It highlighted how GSH depletion contributes to blood clot formation, cytokine storms (overactive immune response), and persistent oxidative stress. The review emphasized that replenishing glutathione—either directly or through NAC—may help restore antioxidant defenses, reduce clotting risk, and support recovery from Long COVID.
Final Thoughts and Typical Use
Emerging evidence supports the role of glutathione and related compounds like NAC and ALA in addressing multiple underlying factors in Long COVID, including oxidative stress, immune imbalance, and microvascular dysfunction. These supplements have shown potential not only in theory but also in preliminary patient outcomes. They are generally well tolerated and available in oral and intravenous forms. A typical dose of NAC is 600-1200 mg daily, while for ALA it’s anywhere from 200 to 1800 mg daily. Always start with the lowest dose and then adjust from there. It’s important to have supervision from a healthcare provider experienced in Long COVID to tailor treatment based on individual needs.