Last reviewed · How we verify
L-Arginine
L-Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that serves as a substrate for nitric oxide synthase, increasing nitric oxide production to improve vascular function and blood flow.
L-Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that serves as a substrate for nitric oxide synthase, increasing nitric oxide production to improve vascular function and blood flow. Used for Cardiovascular dysfunction and endothelial dysfunction, Immune support and wound healing, Erectile dysfunction.
At a glance
| Generic name | L-Arginine |
|---|---|
| Also known as | 2-Amino-5-guanidinopentanoic acid, Argimax, Placebo, Arginine 1000 (Jarrow Formulas, Los Angeles, CA), Blue ox |
| Sponsor | The University of Texas at Arlington |
| Drug class | Amino acid supplement |
| Target | Nitric oxide synthase substrate |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Cardiovascular, Immunology, Wound healing |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
L-Arginine is converted to nitric oxide (NO) and L-citrulline by the enzyme nitric oxide synthase. Nitric oxide acts as a vasodilator, improving endothelial function and blood flow. It also plays roles in immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis.
Approved indications
- Cardiovascular dysfunction and endothelial dysfunction
- Immune support and wound healing
- Erectile dysfunction
Common side effects
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
Key clinical trials
- DDAVP for Pituitary Adenoma (NA)
- Optimal Blood Pressure for the prevenTIon of Major vAscuLar Events in Patients With DIABETES Mellitus (OPTIMAL-DIABETES) (NA)
- Pre-Surgical Immunonutrition's Effect on Colorectal Surgery (NA)
- 177Lu-DOTA-EB-TATE in Adult Patients With Metastatic, Radioactive Iodine Non-Responsive Oncocytic (Hurthle-Cell) Thyroid Cancer (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Effects of L-arginine and Liposomial Vitamin C on Severe Copd Patients Undergoing Pulmonary Rehabilitation. (NA)
- Bleeding Reduction in Acute and Chronic Kidney Patients Having Surgery (BRACKETS) Pilot Trial (PHASE3)
- Effect of a Food for Special Medical Purposes on Muscle Mass Preservation During GLP-1 RAs Weight Loss Treatment (NA)
- Phase I/II Study of PEGylated Arginine Deiminase (ADI-PEG20) With Carboplatin and Cabazitaxel in Men With Aggressive Variant Prostate Cancers (AVPC) (PHASE1, PHASE2)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |