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Officials warn wildland firefighters about the risks of using a supplement for smoke exposure

The union said the supplement lacks clinical proof and may cause illness, citing bacterial contamination recalls and reports that some firefighters felt worse.

  • Last week, The IAFF issued a safety advisory warning about glutathione, noting the supplement is not FDA-approved and at least two pharmacies recalled the product due to bacterial contamination.
  • During recent blazes in Spokane and California, firefighters have used glutathione, with some claiming the supplement helps alleviate smoke-related symptoms despite no research proving its efficacy or safety.
  • Dr. Cora Sack, a pulmonary specialist at the University of Washington School of Medicine, said "we lack clinical evidence of its efficacy," while Luke Montrose at Colorado State University expressed hesitation about the antioxidant's use.
  • According to recent pharmacy recalls, injecting or inhaling contaminated glutathione "could cause significant medical events including fevers, hypotension, inflammatory reactions, anaphylactic shock and death," while nebulizers may constrict airways.
  • Jen Riegle, co-founder of The Integrative Health Action Network, said the organization recognizes the need for peer-reviewed research on glutathione and is "actively exploring partnerships to that end.
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West US firefighters were warned about an unapproved supplement that could be contaminated and cause disease. IAFF and experts point to the lack of evidence about the benefits of glutathione, while safety concerns continue.

·Buenos Aires, Argentina
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The International Union of Firefighters has received reports that some firefighters felt worse or became ill after taking the supplement. The post USA: Warnings about a supplement given to firefighters after exposure to smoke – What are the risks appeared first on in.gr.

·Greece
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Officials warn wildland firefighters about the risks of using a supplement for smoke exposure

Fire and medical officials have issued warnings about a supplement offered to Western wildland firefighters who have been exposed to toxic chemicals.

·New York, United States
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Fire and health agencies in the United States have issued warnings about the dangers of using glutathione, a supplement offered to firefighters exposed to smoke from large wildfires. Experts point out that glutathione, which is administered intravenously or via nebulizer, has not been proven safe and effective for treating the effects of smoke inhalation. They also warn that possible contamination during its preparation can cause serious health …

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Winnipeg Free Press broke the news in Winnipeg, Canada on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
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