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Amino acidsWeak evidence

L-lysine

Also known as: lysine

Lysine is an essential amino acid needed for protein and collagen production and involved in calcium absorption. It is best known for use in recurrent cold sores.

What it is used for

  • Fewer or shorter cold sore (herpes simplex) episodes – weak evidence, results are mixed
  • Top-up on plant-based diets low in legumes – weak evidence

Forms and how they differ

L-lysine HCl

most common in powder, tablets and capsules

vegan capsules

same active ingredient, different shell

When to take it

Between or with meals, split during the day.

Pairs well with

Vitamin C, zinc, legumes in the diet.

Do not combine / separate

Avoid taking high-dose arginine at the same time, as it works the opposite way.

Watch out for

Caution with kidney disease and high-dose calcium. 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

For cold sores, start at the first tingle and see your doctor if episodes are frequent.

Products containing L-lysine 5

L-lysine 1000 mgHCl · 1 000 mg / tabletImmunitySkinBones
L-lysine 500 mg500 mg / servingImmunitySkinBones
L-lysine 500 mg500 mg / capsuleImmunitySkinBones
L-lysine L-lysine HCl 1000 mgL-lysine HCl · 1 000 mg / servingImmunitySkinBones
L-lysineImmunitySkinBones
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-lysine with others

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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.