L-Arginine

Overview

Arginine, also known as L-arginine, is an amino acid. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Arginine is produced naturally in the body. It is also found in foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, eggs, and seeds of all types. Arginine helps to dilate or open, blood vessels. It works by converting into nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide then dilates the blood vessels by relaxing the muscles that constrict them. Arginine is produced pharmaceutically and given as a supplement for many conditions. It can stimulate the release of insulin, growth hormone (helps increase muscle mass and reduce the amount of fat in the body), and other substances.

Other Uses

Arginine may also help with athletic performance, kidney function following a transplant, preeclampsia, inflammation in the digestive tract of premature infants, and immune system function. Topically, L-arginine helps wound healing, blood flow to cold hands and feet (helpful for those with diabetes), and sexual issues in both men and women.

Dosage, Concentration, Route of Administration

Dosage: Seek advice from a licensed physician, medical director, or other healthcare provider

Concentration: 200mg/ml

Route of Administration: IV/IM

Precautions/Side Effects

Not enough is known about how it affects those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Special precautions should be taken in those with asthma, allergies, cirrhosis, herpes, low blood pressure, recent heart attack, and kidney disease. Because blood pressure is affected while taking arginine, those who anticipate surgery should discontinue use at least 2 weeks prior to the scheduled date to avoid any complications. Children taking arginine need to be closely monitored to avoid serious side effects. Arginine can interact with several different medications, so it is important to speak with your doctor before taking.

Some common side effects include:

• – Abdominal pain
• – Bloating
• – Gout
• – Diarrhea
• – Blood abnormalities
• – Allergies
• – Airway inflammation
• – Worsening of asthma
• – Hypotension (low blood pressure)

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature. Protect from light.