L-Arginine Supplement Side Effects

Arginine is a type of bitter-tasting, semi-essential amino acid, and a building block of proteins. L-arginine is included in the 20 natural amino acids, meaning it is naturally produced by the body. Also, there are foods high in arginine that serve as good sources for this amino acid. While external supply of this natural amino acid is not always necessary, supplementation may be required in some people. Nevertheless, it is of utmost importance to outweigh the benefits with the L-arginine supplement side effects before actually taking this supplement.

L-Arginine Supplement: At a Glance

In the body, L-arginine amino acid acts as a precursor for nitric oxide (NO), urea and other amino acids. It is required for expelling ammonia, and for production of creatine, glutamate and citrulline. Studies reveal that this natural amino acid stimulates the secretion of growth hormone and insulin hormone. Taking all these into consideration, it is concluded that arginine amino acid plays a major role in the normal functioning of bodily metabolism. The L-arginine supplements are administered for people with infections, burns, sepsis, urea synthesis disorders, sexual problems and peritoneal dialysis.

L-Arginine Supplement: Side Effects

After taking L-arginine supplement, the ingested amino acid gets converted to nitric oxide, which brings about widening and relaxation of blood vessels (vasodilation effect). It also enhances the production of some hormones in the body. In general, supplementation of L-arginine is considered safe, provided that correct dose is taken orally, and for a short-term period. But increased L-arginine dosage, and using for an extended period are linked to several adverse effects. In children, overdose of this supplement may cause life-threatening medical complications.

While L-arginine supplement is effectual for treating several medical problems, people having underlying diseases should not take it unless directed by the concerned physician. It is shown to exacerbate allergies, asthma and herpes. Since L-arginine cause fluctuations in blood pressure, this amino acid supplement is strictly not recommended for people, who have recently undergone surgery, or are diagnosed with heart attacks. The same is for patients with low blood pressure. Listed below are probable L-arginine supplement side effects.

• Headache
• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness
• Nauseated feeling
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Digestive problems
• Dehydration
• Abnormal swelling of legs
• Chest pain
• Low blood pressure
• Airway inflammation
• Difficultly in breathing
• Blood abnormalities
• Elevated blood sugar
• Anaphylaxis
• Worsening asthma
• Worsening of cold sores
• Worsening of sickle cell disease

For avoiding drug interactions and L-arginine supplement side effects, it should not be taken in conjunction with some therapeutic drugs (particularly drugs for high blood pressure and medications containing nitrates). Say for instance, taking it with antihypertensive medication may result in drastic reduction of blood pressure, which can be fatal for the patient. In the same way, L-arginine is shown to stimulate blood flow in the arteries. So, administering the supplement with vasodilation medications, or those formulated with nitric oxide may lead to adverse bodily reactions.

In order to minimize L-arginine supplement side effects, taking it under medical supervision is a must. The appropriate dosage depends upon the purpose for which this supplement is taken. While safe oral concentration for patients diagnosed with congestive heart failure is between 6 - 20 g per day (divided in three doses), the dosage for treating erectile dysfunction in men is 5 g per day. Likewise, follow the doctor's suggestions regarding intake period of L-arginine supplement to avoid adverse effects. At any point of time, incorporating L-arginine foods in the diet is a better approach to relying on supplements.