What is the recommended dosage for L-Arginine?

Endothelial Function: 3,000-6,000 mg/day; Blood Pressure Support: 6,000-10,000 mg/day divided BID-TID

What are the side effects of L-Arginine?

Potential side effects include: Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, diarrhea, bloating), Hypotension at high doses, Worsening of herpes simplex (arginine promotes viral replication), Potential harm in acute post-MI patients (VINTAGE MI concern).

What is L-arginine and how may it support cardiovascular health?

L-arginine is an amino acid and precursor to nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that relaxes blood vessels. Clinical studies suggest L-arginine supplementation may modestly reduce blood pressure and improve endothelial function in certain populations. However, the VINTAGE MI trial found no benefit and potential harm in post-heart attack patients.

What dosage of L-arginine has been studied for cardiovascular health?

Clinical trials have used 3–12 grams of L-arginine per day, often divided into two or three doses. Blood pressure studies typically used 4–6 grams daily for 2–12 weeks. Endothelial function improvements have been observed at doses of 6–10 grams daily. Higher doses are more likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects.

What are the potential side effects of L-arginine?

Common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. L-arginine should be avoided by individuals who have had a recent heart attack (based on the VINTAGE MI trial). It may lower blood pressure and interact with antihypertensives and nitrates. L-arginine may reactivate herpes simplex virus in susceptible individuals.

L-Arginine

amino_acid

Also known as: Arginine, L-Arg, Arginine Hydrochloride, Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate

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About

L-Arginine is the direct substrate for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), the enzyme that produces nitric oxide — the primary endogenous vasodilator. A 2011 meta-analysis of 11 RCTs found L-arginine reduced systolic blood pressure by 5.39 mmHg. However, the VINTAGE MI trial was terminated early due to a trend toward increased mortality in post-MI patients, so L-arginine should be avoided in acute coronary syndromes.

How It Works

Direct substrate for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which produces nitric oxide (NO) — the primary endogenous vasodilator; NO activates soluble guanylate cyclase increasing cGMP causing smooth muscle relaxation; also inhibits platelet adhesion and aggregation; reduces endothelin-1 expression.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Endothelial Dysfunction	C	11	600	View →
Heart Failure	D	3	150	View →

Side Effects

Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, diarrhea, bloating)
Hypotension at high doses
Worsening of herpes simplex (arginine promotes viral replication)
Potential harm in acute post-MI patients (VINTAGE MI concern)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Antihypertensives (additive blood pressure lowering)
PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil — excessive vasodilation risk)
Nitrates (excessive vasodilation risk)
Anticoagulants (may have mild antiplatelet effect)
Potassium-sparing diuretics (arginine may increase potassium levels)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

L-Citrulline Nattokinase Taurine

Quick Facts

Dosage: Endothelial_Function: 3,000-6,000 mg/day; Blood_Pressure_Support: 6,000-10,000 mg/day divided BID-TID
Forms: capsule tablet powder
Natural Sources: Turkey, Pork, Chicken, Pumpkin seeds, Soybeans, Peanuts, Spirulina
Upper Limit: Not formally established; GI discomfort common above 10,000 mg/day
Best Time: On empty stomach for best absorption; divide doses throughout the day

Evidence Summary

Endothelial Dysfunction C

Heart Failure D

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.