L-Arginine Side Effects

Even though L-arginine is a natural amino acid found in the human body, side effects can occur. When L-arginine supplements are taken orally, side effects may include stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhea. If you intravenously use L-arginine, side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Although most people tolerate L-arginine well, more serious side effects can occur, such as breathing problems or allergic reactions.

 

Does L-Arginine Cause Side Effects?

L-arginine is an amino acid produced by the human body. It is also found in many foods and dietary supplements. Just because L-arginine is a natural amino acid, it does not automatically mean that it is free of side effects. For most people, these side effects are merely bothersome. In fact, most people tolerate oral L-arginine supplements quite well, often without any side effects (or just mild side effects). Taking L-arginine intravenously (by IV) can also cause certain side effects.
 

Bothersome L-Arginine Side Effects

Some people may experience bothersome L-arginine side effects (due to taking L-arginine orally), such as:
 
When taken by IV, L-arginine may cause the following side effects:
 
 

Serious L-Arginine Side Effects

There are a number of side effects with L-arginine (when taken orally) that you should report to your healthcare provider and which might indicate that you should stop taking L-arginine. These include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Breathing problems, including a worsening of asthma
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including an unexplained rash, hives, itching, unexplained swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.
     
Taking L-arginine intravenously can cause additional serious side effects, such as:
 
  • Swelling around the eyes
  • Extreme irritation of the veins and surrounding tissues, possibly resulting in severe damage.
     
Theoretically, L-arginine may also cause low blood pressure (hypotension).
 
(L-Arginine Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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