Fire officials caution against untested glutathione supplement for smoke-exposed firefighters

Fire and medical authorities have cautioned that glutathione, a supplement being provided to wildland firefighters exposed to toxic smoke, has not been proven safe or effective and could pose infection risks if contaminated. The International Association of Firefighters released a safety advisory noting that glutathione is not an FDA-approved drug and that recent pharmacy recalls found bacterial contamination linked to fevers and severe headaches.

During the Spokane wildfires, a nonprofit run by licensed naturopathic doctors offered the supplement via IV or nebulizer, continuing a practice that started after the 2025 Los Angeles County fires. Although some firefighters, such as Captain Matt Caffey, report feeling better, IAFF health-safety assistant Sean DeCrane said reports of illness and potential airway constriction have surfaced. Pulmonary specialist Cora Sack warned that inhaled glutathione could trigger asthma attacks and that contaminated injections can cause serious reactions. The supplement’s co-founder Jen Riegle acknowledged the need for peer-reviewed studies and said the organization is seeking research partnerships.