Method for stimulating intracellular synthesis of glutathione using esters of L-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate

A method for stimulating the intracellular synthesis of glutathione in cells not readily penetratable by L-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate comprising the step of administering to a patient a therapeutically effective amount of an ester of 2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate in an amount sufficient to stimulate the intracellular synthesis of cells that are not readily penetrated by 2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate.

A topical ointment capable of stimulating the intracellular synthesis of glutathione in at least cells to which the ointment is applied comprising:

• a therapeutically effective amount of an ester of 2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate that is an oil at room temperature;
• and
• a mineral oil base.

An ophthalmic ointment capable of stimulating the intracellular synthesis of glutathione in the cells of a patient's eye comprising:

• a therapeutically effective amount of an ester of 2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate that is an oil at room temperature;
• and
• a base chosen from the group consisting of non-irritant oils and lipids.