When to take it
Before training or split during the day.
← All supplements
PerformanceWeak evidence
L-arginine
Also known as: arginine, arginine AKG
Arginine is an amino acid the body uses to make nitric oxide, which supports blood flow. Taken orally, much of it is broken down in the gut and liver, so citrulline is often more effective.
What it is used for
- Better performance and muscle blood flow – weak evidence
- Slight blood pressure reduction – weak evidence
- Erectile function support – weak evidence
Forms and how they differ
L-arginine base or HCl
basic form
arginine AKG (alpha-ketoglutarate)
popular in sport, benefits not convincingly shown
pyroglutamate and combinations
mixes of forms, often with ornithine; quality depends on the label
Pairs well with
Citrulline, a protein-adequate diet.
Do not combine / separate
Be careful with other substances lowering blood pressure.
Watch out for
Caution with blood pressure drugs, nitrates, erectile dysfunction drugs, recurrent herpes and after a heart attack. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have kidney or liver disease or take any medicines.
Safety
Do not exceed the label dose.
Practical tip
If nitric oxide and blood flow are the goal, citrulline is usually the better choice.
Products containing L-arginine 9
L-arginine + L-citrulline + L-ornithinepowder
L-arginine + L-citrullinesustained release
L-arginine AAKG + L-citrulline malate 2100 mgAAKG + L-citrulline malate · 2 100 mg / serving
L-arginine L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate 3000 mgL-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate · 3 000 mg / serving
L-arginine AAKG + L-ornithine HCl 4000 mgAAKG + L-ornithine HCl · 4 000 mg / serving
L-arginine L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate 2785 mgL-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate · 2 785 mg / serving
L-arginine L-arginine + AAKG + pyroglutamate 3000 mgL-arginine + AAKG + pyroglutamate · 3 000 mg / serving
L-arginine 500 mgL-arginine · 500 mg / capsule
L-arginineL-arginine
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check L-arginine with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
AmylopectinModerate evidenceBeta-alanineStrong evidenceBHB ketonesWeak evidenceCaffeineStrong evidenceCreatineStrong evidenceD-aspartic acidWeak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.