Firefighters say this antioxidant helped them - their union warns it could be risky

What the report says

BBC World News reports that glutathione, an antioxidant, is being used at some major U.S. wildfire response sites as a treatment some firefighters say helps relieve symptoms after heavy smoke exposure. The article focuses on firefighters in California and Washington, including Pasadena Fire Captain David Marquez, who said he felt better after using the treatment following the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles. The fire was described as one of the most destructive in California history, with deaths and major property loss.

The piece says interest in glutathione grew through volunteer clinician groups such as the Integrated Health Action Network, which has offered the treatment alongside other naturopathic services at wildfire sites. Supporters argue it may help remove harmful contaminants from the body and reduce headaches, fatigue and brain fog. However, the BBC notes that this evidence is anecdotal, and no large clinical trials have established whether the treatment is safe or effective for firefighters.

The International Association of Fire Fighters has recently warned about glutathione, citing concerns over contamination at compounding pharmacies and the lack of rigorous research. One union health official said it is not known whether the benefits are real, a placebo effect, or whether there could be long-term risks. Medical experts quoted in the report also said wildfire smoke clearly poses serious inhalation hazards, but stressed that proven protections such as respiratory gear and decontamination should remain the priority. The debate reflects a broader shift in firefighter health culture, as more crews focus on cancer prevention and recovery.