Arginine

Products

Arginine is commercially available in the form of tablets and capsules, among others. It is also combined fixed with aspartate ( argininaspartate). Most of the preparations are dietary supplements. Some are also approved as medicines. The amino acid is found in many foods. Meat, eggs, soy protein, gelatin, nuts, seeds and fish are rich in arginine.

Structure and properties

Arginine (C₆H₁₄N₄O₂, M_r = 174.2 g/mol) is a natural, semi-essential and proteinogenic L-amino acid. It carries a basic guanidine side chain. Arginine exists as a white crystalline powder or as colorless crystals and is readily soluble in water.

Effects

Arginine (ATC V06CA) is a component of proteins (proteins) and is involved in numerous metabolic processes in the body. Its metabolites exert vasodilatory, circulatory, antihypertensive, antiplatelet, anabolic, and immunomodulatory effects, among others. The mediator nitric oxide (NO) is formed in the body from arginine. NO is involved in vasodilation, smooth muscle relaxation, in the endocrine system, endothelial and immune function, among others. NO is a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, where it is important for memory and learning. It counteracts the development of atherosclerosis and inhibits platelet aggregation. Arginine also plays a role in sperm formation and wound healing. Creatine, L-ornithine, L-glutamate and polyamines are formed from the amino acid.

Fields of application

Possible areas of application include: As a dietary supplement (selection, no medical indications):

• Cardiovascular diseases: Hypertension, arteriosclerosis, angina pectoris, heart failure, intermittent claudication.
• Promotion of wound healing, after surgery
• Potency disorders, erectile dysfunction, fertility promotion.
• Stimulation of the release of growth hormone, for example in bodybuilding and sports.

As a medicinal product:

• Restoration of somatic and mental performance in states of exhaustion and weakness, as a concomitant medication in convalescence (arginine preparation).
• Parenteral nutrition
• Severe metabolic alkalosis, in pediatrics for hyperammonemia due to severe congenital metabolic defects (arginine hydrochloride).

Dosage

According to the professional information. The agents are administered perorally and parenterally.

Contraindications

Refer to the drug label for complete precautions.

Interactions

Enhancement of the effects of antihypertensive and vasodilator drugs cannot be ruled out. Arginine may antagonize the effect of lysine in preventing cold sores.

Adverse effects

Possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea, and hypersensitivity reactions.