Shefali Jariwala Took an Anti-Ageing Shot Before She Collapsed—Are These Treatments Fatal?

News18

30-06-2025

Last Updated:
The tragic death of Shefali Jariwala has spotlighted the hidden risks of unsupervised anti-ageing treatments like glutathione and vitamin C injections
The tragic and untimely death of actor-model Shefali Jariwala on the night of June 27 has left the entertainment industry in mourning and raised serious questions about the long-term health risks of anti-ageing treatments. While the exact cause of death is still under investigation, early reports indicate that Shefali had been on a regular regimen of anti-ageing injections, including glutathione and vitamin C, for nearly a decade. A source close to the family revealed that she took one such injection on the day of her death, despite fasting for a religious ritual, and collapsed hours later.
As police and forensic experts investigate further, glutathione injections, vitamin C ampoules, and acidity pills have reportedly been recovered from her residence. This tragic case is now prompting a deeper examination into the world of anti-ageing drugs, particularly the growing popularity of intravenous treatments among celebrities and influencers.
According to Dr. Aashna Kanchwala, Celebrity Cosmetologist & Aesthetic Physician, the pressure to stay camera-ready pushes many celebrities to embrace treatments that go beyond topical skincare.
'While skincare routines are a given, many famous personalities take it a step further with treatments and supplements that promise to slow down the ageing process," says Dr. Kanchwala. 'Botox and fillers are among the most common, relaxing facial muscles and restoring volume for a youthful look."
She adds that NAD+ therapy, taken via IV or injections, is growing in popularity for its cell-repairing, energy-boosting benefits. Human Growth Hormone (HGH), though controversial, is used for enhancing skin texture, muscle tone, and vitality.
Glutathione and collagen supplements, either in pills or injectables, are often used for skin brightening and detoxification, despite limited regulation.
Dr. Debeshi, Medical Head & Founder, Lueur Aesthetics, lists several popular choices seen in celebrity wellness routines:
'Treatments like NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) and Resveratrol are known for boosting cellular energy and longevity. Collagen, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C infusions are widely used for improving skin elasticity and hydration. Injectable procedures like Morpheus8 and Forma offer non-surgical skin tightening and rejuvenation."
She emphasizes that while injectables like Botox and dermal fillers are mainstays in Hollywood, they should always be administered under medical supervision.
What About Internal Ageing?
Dr. Piyusha Bhagde, Founder and Chief Dermatologist, Skin Ethics Clinic, Akola, stresses the importance of understanding that ageing happens both externally and internally.
'External ageing can be managed with sunscreen, topical retinols, peptides, and antioxidants," she says. 'But internal ageing requires boosting cell metabolism with oral anti-ageing supplements like marine collagen, astaxanthin, CoQ10, resveratrol, curcumin, omega-3 fatty acids, and the latest, NAD+."
She adds that injectable drips often cocktails of glutathione, vitamin C, and NAD+ are increasingly popular but carry risks when self-administered or poorly monitored. Additionally, advanced injectables like HA boosters, PDRN, exosomes, and PN are now being used to stimulate natural collagen and improve skin tone and texture.
The Glutathione Question: How Safe Is It?
Glutathione has become a buzzword in celebrity skincare, but it's not without concern. While oral and topical forms are generally considered safe, IV glutathione carries serious risks, including anaphylactic reactions and liver toxicity.
A 2022 study published in Cureus highlights the lack of standardized dosing and insufficient clinical data on long-term safety. The same study calls for larger trials and warns against casual use without medical oversight.
Can These Treatments Affect the Heart?
While not all anti-ageing treatments pose direct cardiac threats, the combination of multiple supplements and injectables, especially in individuals with underlying health issues or during fasting or physical stress, may strain the body.
High doses of vitamin C via IV can influence electrolyte balance and, in rare cases, impact heart rhythm. Glutathione injections may influence liver enzymes, and when paired with other metabolic boosters, could overstimulate the body.
While anti-ageing treatments promise a youthful glow, they are not without risks—especially when misused or taken without supervision. The case of Shefali Jariwala is a sobering reminder that even well-known and widely used beauty treatments can have serious consequences when not administered responsibly.
As Dr. Aashna Kanchwala rightly sums up, 'These treatments aren't one-size-fits-all. What works wonders for one person may be harmful to another. Supervised care is not optional—it's essential."
Before choosing anti-ageing therapies, consult qualified medical professionals, and remember: youthful skin is good, but long-term health is better.
About the Author
Swati Chaturvedi
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl...Read More
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