Objective To compare the effects of reduced glutathione by predisposing dialyser and/or taken orally on oxidative stress and microinflammatory state in patient with maintenance hemodialysis (MHD).   Methods Fifty-one MHD patients visiting our hospital from January to June 2006

were randomly assigned to receive oral reduced glutathione

predisposing dialyser with reduced glutathione or both for 6 weeks. Ten healthy subjects from out-patient clinic for physical examination served as control. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA)

advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP)

high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)

interleukin (IL-6)

tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) in plasma were measured before and after the treatment.   Results The levels of hs-CRP

IL-6

TNF-α

AOPP

MDA 6 weeks after treatment of either therapy were all lower than those before treatment. The combined therapy of reduced glutathione achieved the best therapeutic effect.   Conclusion Either reduced glutathione taken orally or by predisposing improves oxidative stress and microinflammatory state in MHD patients

but their combination achieves better therapeutic effect

without apparent side effect.