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[SITUATION] · [QUIET] · [HEALTH]

2 clusters · 12 sources · 3 days · First seen · Last updated

Safety warnings regarding glutathione for firefighters

Overview

Medical and fire officials have issued warnings to wildland firefighters regarding the use of glutathione, a supplement intended to combat toxic smoke and PFAS exposure. The supplement, which is administered via nebulizer or intravenous drip, is being distributed at wildfire camps by the Integrative Health Action Network, a nonprofit run by licensed naturopathic doctors.

Concerns have centered on the lack of clinical evidence and FDA approval for using glutathione for these purposes. Additionally, safety risks have intensified following reports of bacterial contamination in the supplement. A nationwide recall was issued by Victory Medical Center Pharmacy after discovering elevated bacterial endotoxin levels. Reported adverse effects from use include fever, chills, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and changes in blood pressure. The FDA has noted that such contamination can lead to serious medical events, including anaphylactic shock and death.

Entities

International Association of Firefighters · Integrative Health Action Network · Spokane · Food and Drug Administration · Victory Medical Center Pharmacy

Timeline

  1. 18 days ago

    [HEALTH] 2 sources
    IAFF and FDA warn firefighters against glutathione supplements

    The IAFF and FDA have warned wildland firefighters against using glutathione supplements to treat smoke or PFAS exposure, citing a lack of efficacy and risks of bacterial contamination.

  2. 20 days ago

    [HEALTH] 9 sources
    Firefighters warned against using glutathione for smoke exposure

    Officials are warning wildland firefighters against using glutathione for smoke exposure, citing a lack of FDA approval, potential bacterial contamination, and unproven efficacy.

Sources

cheknews.ca · dailypilot.com · dnyuz.com · fireaviation.com · independent.co.uk · insurancejournal.com · medicaldaily.com · mymotherlode.com · newsday.com · semissourian.com · srnnews.com · wtop.com