Arginine
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
L-arginine is an amino acid that helps maintain the body's fluid balance. It also aids in wound healing, hair growth, sperm production, blood vessel relaxation and fights infection. Arginine may be useful in treating medical conditions such as angina, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, erectile dysfunction, heart failure, leg pain and vascular headache.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Growth hormone reserve test / pituitary disorder diagnosis (FDA approved) A
Inborn errors of urea synthesis A
Heart disorders (coronary artery disease, angina, heart failure) B
Critical illness B
Migraine headache B
Peripheral vascular disease / claudication B
Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) C
Anal fissures C
Autonomic failure C
Cancer (surgery and chemotherapy) C
Burns C
Chest pain C
Circulation problems C
Dental pain C
Diabetes and diabetic complications C
Erectile dysfunction C
Heart attack C
Heart protection during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) C
High blood pressure C
High cholesterol C
Immunomodulator C
Intrauterine growth retardation C
Kidney disease or failure C
MELAS syndrome C
Pressure ulcers C
Prevention of restenosis after coronary angioplasty (PTCA) C
Raynaud's phenomenon C
Recovery after surgery C
Respiratory infections C
Senile dementia C
Transplants C
Wound healing C
Altitude sickness D
Cyclosporine toxicity D
Exercise performance D
Infertility D
Interstitial cystitis D
Kidney protection during angiography D
Asthma F
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic to arginine, if you have history of stroke, liver or kidney disease. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding. Use caution if taking blood-thinning drugs (like warfarin or Coumadin®) and blood pressure drugs or herbs or supplements with similar effects. Check blood potassium levels. L-arginine may worsen symptoms of sickle cell disease. Caution is advised in patients taking prescription drugs to control sugar levels.

Possible side effects:
Bleeding, breathing problems, bruising, changes in blood levels of potassium, chloride, sodium, phosphate, urea/nitrogen or creatinine, changes in blood pressure or blood sugar, death, headache, itching, jittery legs, lower back pain, increased bowel movements, nausea, numbness, skin rash, skin redness/flushing, stomach cramps, stomach discomfort.

Possible Interactions:
Aminophylline / theophylline, blood pressure drugs (like enalapril or diuretics like spironolactalone), blood sugar drugs (like insulin), blood-thinners (like aspirin, warfarin), estrogens (like birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy), antacids (ranitidine, Prevacid®, Nexium®), pain-relievers/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Viagra®, xylitol, ginkgo, bitter melon, garlic, and other herbs and supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:
No established doses. Most people do not need to take arginine because the body usually makes enough.

Adult (18 years and older):
By mouth: A common dose is 2-3 grams taken three times daily. In studies, 0.5-16 grams of arginine has been taken daily for up to six months.
Intravenous: The U.S. FDA allows healthcare providers to prescribe arginine for treating certain electrolyte disturbances based on hospital guidelines.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.