From: "grampys2002" <d.wain@...>
> I was recently introduced to glutathione by a friend. I am stage iv
> colon cancer survivor, liver and lung resection for mets and trying
> to stay healthy by using alternate medicine.
> Researching glutathione on the web it seems to have some potential.
> Has any one any experience with it or is just another false hope.
> Regards David.

Many holistic cancer practitioners use glutathione, and my
understanding is that it can be quite helpful. When taken orally, I
think it's best to take N-acetyl Cysteine (NAC), which is converted to
the anticancer amino acid L-glutathione. I've also read the following:
Take on empty stomach; I've seen 100-2000mg recommended; take in
divided doses throughout the day since it may have a short half-life;
if you take L-glutathione (rather than NAC), it's best absorbed
sublingually.
POSITIVES: antioxidant; detoxes; activates immune cells; improves
liver functioning; may inhibit angiogenesis; greatly enhances effects
of adriamycin or cisplatin (chemo drugs); L-cysteine protects body
against harmful effects of bleomycin; reduces side effects of
radiation & chemo; effective w/liver cancer
CAUTIONS & NEGATIVES: Don't take it if you're using artemisinin or
cisplatin. May be best NOT to take NAC if liver is toxic
[L-glutathione MAY still be ok to take]. "Cancer cells
use...glutathione to protect themselves from immune
attack....undermine many...other cancer therapies...Glutathione
undermines most chemotherapy....the cancer killing properties of
vitamin K3 are sabotaged by glutathione (Clin Immunol 1999 Oct. 93(1):
65-74)....The bottom line: if you are trying to `kill' cancer by
getting yourself very healthy in every way [glutathione supplements
are] justified. If another strategy is used or needed, the issue
become much more complex." (Vincent Gammill, ND, ScD,
vgammill@..., 4/1/00;
www.groups.yahoo.com/group/cancercure/message/6965).
See also www.groups.yahoo.com/group/cancercure/message/8413
"glutathione undermines oxidative therapies" (Gammill, 10/9/00).
"glutathione...can be most unwelcome with many cancer treatment
strategies as glutathione is a major contributor to multiple drug
resistance"
Dr. Prasad (2003) stated that "NAC.or glutathione at any dose...before
[chemo or radiation] treatment, would be a mistake. Glutathione makes
cells resistant...and causes them to act as though they were in
s-phase. Glutathione by IV shows inhibition of cancer cells.
But...this is NOT compatible with chemotherapy or radiation"
www.annieappleseedproject.org/amcolforadin1.html

Personally, I would probably take glutathoine (in the form of NAC)
UNLESS I had 1 of the specific contraindications listed above.

Leonard