Reviews and Information for Arginine (L-arginine)
L-Arginine Supplements
Read reviews for the best L-arginine supplements (including free-form arginine, L-arginine HCl, L-arginine-alpha-ketoglutarate) for blood flow and amounts of arginine in popular products. Review evidence for using L-arginine for improving exercise endurance, symptoms of congestive heart failure, sexual dysfunction, intermittent claudication, and Raynaud's phenomenon.
L-Arginine Supplements Review
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Product Review
Nitric Oxide Supplements (Bodybuilding and Athletic Performance) Review Article
Do Nitric Oxide Supplements Really Work? Find Out If Nitric Oxide Supplements Really Build Muscle or Improve Performance.
Product Review
Sexual Enhancer Supplements Review (with Yohimbe, Horny Goat Weed, Arginine)
Choose the Best Sexual Enhancer Supplement. Only 30% of Selected Sexual Enhancement Supplements Pass Quality Tests.
Product Review
L-Citrulline Supplements Review
Learn How Citrulline Products Differ and Our Top Picks
CL Answer
Is L-arginine helpful or harmful for people with cancer?
Find out if L-arginine supplements are helpful or safe for people with cancer.
CL Answer
Does citrulline improve exercise performance or recovery?
Information on citrulline supplements helping with exercise endurance, performance, muscle strength, fatigue or soreness after exercise. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Have any supplements been shown to increase women's libido?
Learn more about supplements that may increase women's libido, including DHEA and maca.
CL Answer
Is it safe to chew softgel supplements instead of swallowing them? Does this affect absorption of the ingredients?
Find out if it is safe to chew softgel supplements, instead of swallowing them, and if this affects absorption of the ingredients.
CL Answer
Must I take amino acid supplements on an empty stomach? Can I take them with other amino acids or with food to help with swallowing capsules?
Find out if you should take amino acid pills on an empty stomach or with food in order to maximize absorption, and more about the best way to take amino acid supplements.
CL Answer
Which supplements help with erectile dysfunction?
Supplements for erectile dysfunction. Find out which supplements can help with ED, including ginseng, L-arginine, and maca.
CL Answer
Tablets I purchased are becoming "crumbly" after a few weeks and are easy to break. Is there a problem with this supplement?
Should you be concerned if your supplement tablets have started to crumble? Learn more including the best way to keep pills from getting soft.
Clinical Update
6/25/2024
L-Arginine Caution
Be aware that L-arginine can cause irritation and inflammation of the esophagus and mouth based on the type of product used and how it is taken. Learn how to avoid this in the ConsumerTips section of our L-Arginine Review, which includes our Top Picks for L-arginine.
Clinical Update
7/22/2022
Does Arginine Improve Blood Flow?
L-arginine is often promoted to improve blood flow to muscle tissue, and so is L-citrulline (which is converted to L-arginine in the body). But a recent study adds more evidence that this is often not the case. See the details in the What It Does section our L-Arginine Product Review.
Clinical Update
5/01/2018
Can L-Arginine Cause Pancreatitis?
Although uncommon, there have been reports of acute pancreatitis occurring in conjunction with L-arginine use. Get the details and learn about other possible side effects of arginine in the Concerns and Cautions section of the L-arginine Supplements Review.
CL Answer
What are human growth hormone (HGH) supplements? What are the benefits? Are they safe?
Learn about the benefits and risks of human growth hormone (HGH) supplements and injections. Get science-based insights on usage and effects.
CL Answer
Is it safe to take arginine, or other supplements for sexual enhancement, while taking Viagra or Cialis?
When taking Cialis or Viagra, is it safe to take arginine or other sexual enhancement supplements?
Clinical Update
10/19/2019
Pill-Induced Esophagitis
Several cases of esophagitis have been reported from taking supplements, including a recent case involving l-arginine capsules. For details, including tips on how to safely take pills, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the L-Arginine Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for L-Arginine.
Clinical Update
3/17/2018
L-Arginine for Workouts?
A recent study assessed whether taking L-Arginine before a high-intensity workout decreased muscle soreness after the workout. Get the results and more details in the Exercise Endurance and Recovery section of the L-Arginine Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products).
Clinical Update
10/11/2022
Throat Injury From L-Arginine
Be aware that L-arginine capsules may cause esophageal injury, as shown in a recent case. Get the details, as well as tips for avoiding this, in the Concerns and Cautions section of our L-Arginine Supplements Review.
Also see our CL Answer 6 Tips to Avoid Getting a Pill Stuck in Your Throat.
Clinical Update
9/14/2021
L-Arginine for COVID?
Did L-arginine supplementation help people with severe COVID-related pneumonia? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of our L-Arginine Supplements Review.
Also see: Do any supplements help with the coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Clinical Update
11/28/2023
L-Arginine & Blood Pressure
Find out why L-arginine should be used cautiously if you are taking medication that reduces blood pressure (including medications for ED) in the Concerns and Cautions section of our L-Arginine Supplements Review.
Learn about other supplements that can affect blood pressure.
Clinical Update
5/21/2024
Arginine for Libido, Mood?
Did taking L-arginine improve sexual function or mood in women with depression? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our L-Arginine Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks.
Clinical Update
4/15/2022
Arginine for Mild Cognitive Impairment?
Can supplementing with L-arginine help elderly people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our L-Arginine Supplements Review.
Also see our CL Answer about other supplements for Memory and Cognition.
Clinical Update
12/02/2017
Citrulline for Improving Exercise?
Citrulline, a compound which is converted to arginine in the body, is often added to workout supplements to improve exercise performance. But does it really help? See what a new study found in the "What It Does" section of the L-Arginine Supplements Review >> (Also see our Top Picks among L-arginine supplements.)
Clinical Update
8/14/2018
Citrulline and Exercise
Several studies have evaluated citrulline (which the body converts to arginine) for enhancing athletic performance. Find out if it helps or not in the Citrulline section of the L-Arginine Review. Also, find out if L-arginine, itself, can help.
CL Answer
Which supplements help with Raynaud's phenomenon?
Raynaud's phenomenon may be helped by some supplements. Learn more about fish oil, Gingko biloba, and ginseng.
Clinical Update
7/23/2019
Arginine for Men?
Does daily arginine supplementation enhance the effect of a popular prescription medication for men? See what a recent study found in the What It Does section of the L-Arginine Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for arginine.
Clinical Update
9/01/2023
Arginine Safety?
Are there safety concerns with taking L-arginine? There are with high doses, capsules, and if you’ve had a heart attack. Learn more in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Arginine Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among arginine products.
Clinical Update
7/12/2022
Citrulline for Heart Health?
Does supplementing with citrulline reduce blood pressure and improve heart function in people with heart failure? Find out in the Citrulline section of our L-Arginine Supplements Review (citrulline is converted to L-arginine in the body).
Clinical Update
9/14/2021
Citrulline for Strength?
Find out if citrulline supplementation improved muscle strength or endurance in older people in recent study. (This information is in the Citrulline section of our L-Arginine Supplements Review, as citrulline is converted to arginine in the body and it is often sold in combination with arginine).
CL Answer
10 Supplements That May Boost Testosterone (And 13 That May Not)
Many supplements promise to increase testestorone, boost libido, and increase muscle size, but, as ConsumerLab explains, the actual effectiveness of supplements is limited, and some supplements may actually reduce testosterone levels.
CL Answer
I have low blood pressure. Are there any supplements I should avoid?
Find out which supplements can cause decreases in blood pressure, including melatonin, arginine, magnesium, and calcium.
Clinical Update
10/28/2022
Citrulline for Blood Pressure?
Does L-citrulline supplementation help lower blood pressure? Find out what a recent study showed in the Citrulline section of our L-arginine Supplements Review.
Also see our answer to the question: Which supplements can help to lower blood pressure?
CL Answer
Hemp Seeds: Health Benefits, Safety, and What To Consider When Picking a Product
Hemp seeds are promoted for heart health, diabetes, boosting testosterone, and other conditions, but do they work? Find out and learn about potential safety concerns.
CL Answer
Can beetroot juice or supplements lower blood pressure or improve exercise performance, and are they safe?
Learn more about beetroot juice and beetroot supplements and if beetroot can really help lower blood pressure.
Product Review
Olive Leaf Extract Supplements Review
Learn What Olive Leaf Does and the Best Brands
News Release
September 11, 2017
ConsumerLab.com Tests L-Arginine "Blood Flow" Supplements, Identifying Its Top Picks
White Plains, New York, September 11, 2017 — L-arginine supplements are often promoted to increase exercise endurance, reduce symptoms of congestive heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions, and improve sexual function.
Clinical Update
9/08/2023
Arginine & Cold Sores
Can arginine supplementation trigger cold sore outbreaks? Find out what research suggests in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Arginine Supplements Review.
Also see: Can any vitamins or minerals help prevent or reduce canker sores or cold sores?
CL Answer
I take lisinopril (Zestril), an ACE inhibitor drug to lower blood pressure. Are there supplements I should avoid, or be taking, due to this drug?
When taking ACE inhibitors, find out which supplements should be avoided. Interaction info on Lisinopril or another ACE inhibitors.
CL Answer
8 Supplements That May Help Treat Peptic Ulcers – And Some to Avoid
Peptic ulcers caused by H. pylori infection are typically treated with antibiotics, but certain supplements may also help. Find out which 8 supplements might be beneficial - and which should be avoided.
Product Review
Lion's Mane and Chaga Supplements Review
Read Labels Carefully -- Many Can Mislead
Product Review
Electrolytes & Sports Drinks Review
See Which Sports Drinks, Powders, and Pills Deliver the Right Electrolytes
Product Review
Lavender and Tea Tree Essential Oils Review
Oils Tested for Authenticity and Purity
CL Answer
Do any supplements help with COVID-19? Do supplements like vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C, or herbals work?
Find out if natural remedies & supplements for coronavirus such as zinc, vitamin C, garlic, or elderberry help to prevent or treat COVID-19.
News Release
November 14, 2011
ConsumerLab.com examines whether nitric oxide supplements make muscles bigger and increase endurance
White Plains, New York — November 14, 2011 — Nitric oxide supplements are widely used for bodybuilding and athletic performance, but do they really work? "They won't pump up your muscles — their main claim, but ‘nitric oxide' supplements may help you exercise intensely a little ...
News Release
August 31, 2011
ConsumerLab.com analyzes supplements for sexual dysfunction -- Only three out of ten products selected for testing pass
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — August 31, 2011 — Only three out of ten supplements selected for testing that are for sexual enhancement passed ConsumerLab.com's latest investigation.
CL Answer
What is the best protein supplement for vegetarians and vegans?
Find out which protein supplements for vegetarians and vegans are best, including those made from whey, casein, soy, rice, pea, and hemp. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
Clinical Update
5/24/2022
Toothpaste and Rinses
We answered the following questions this week as part of our broader article about "Which ingredients should toothpaste contain, and which should be avoided?"
- Can you safely use hydrogen peroxide rinses to whiten teeth?
- Is titanium dioxide safe in toothpastes?
- Is arginine helpful in toothpaste for sensitive teeth?
Clinical Update
12/30/2021
Nitrosigine for Better Cognition?
Can supplementing with inositol-stabilized arginine silicate (Nitrosigine) improve memory and cognition in healthy people? Find out what a recent study showed in our updated answer to the question: Do any supplements or foods help with brain function, like memory and cognition?
Product Review
L-Lysine Supplements Review
Read L-Lysine Labels Carefully. Some Can Fool You.
CL Answer
Which supplements can help to lower blood pressure?
Supplements to lower blood pressure, including CoQ10, vitamin C, fish oil, and olive oil, are all explored to find out what works.
Product Review
Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review
Best Multivitamins In 2023 -- Caution with Gummies
CL Answer
Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?
Find out which supplements help improve memory, brain function and cognition, including fish oil, some B vitamins, cocoa, and curcumin. ConsumerLab's answer explains the evidence for supplements promoted to help with brain function and cognition.
CL Answer
Do any supplements help with pancreatitis? Do any cause pancreatitis?
Find out if supplements including digestive enzymes, antioxidants, or medium-chain triglycerides are beneficial for chronic pancreatitis, and learn which supplements might worsen symptoms.
News Release
January 25, 2006
Sexual enhancement supplements analyzed by Consumerlab.com
WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NEW YORK — JANUARY 25, 2006 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that it found only six out of eleven supplements used for sexual enhancement to contain key ingredients listed on their labels and meet other quality criteria.
Recalls & Warnings
June 16, 2020
Seller of Silver, Arginine, and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On June 1, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Morningstar Minerals LLC, which found the company's products, including Silver Boost, to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that violate Current Good Manufacturing Practices for dietary ...
News Release
September 24, 2002
Problems found with most sexual enhancement supplements evaluated by ConsumerLab.com — Only 9 of 22 products pass independent review
WHITE PLAINS, NY — September 24, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that nearly 60% of products failed to pass its independent Product Review of Sexual Enhancement Supplements. Sexual dysfunction is estimated to affect 43% of women and 31% of men in the U.S.
CL Answer
Which supplements, foods or diet and lifestyle changes help relieve acid reflux (heartburn), and which worsen it?
Find out which supplements and foods can help relieve acid reflux, and which can make it worse.
CL Answer
Which ingredients should toothpastes and other dental products contain, and which should be avoided?
Learn about ingredients you want in your toothpaste, mouthwash and other dental products and which ingredients you may want to avoid.
Recalls & Warnings
April 11, 2013
Maker of Workout Booster Warned For Manufacturing Violations
On March 5, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Primarch Manufacturing, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
September 01, 2020
Custom Nutraceuticals, LLC Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On August 6, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Custom Nutraceuticals, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Thermal Revolution Black, Anabolic Blackout Raspberry Lemonade, Militia Re-COMP, and Rhino Rampage Wildberry to be ...
Recalls & Warnings
August 14, 2020
The Green Herb and New Genesis Health Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On July 31, 2019, the FDA issued a warning letter to Davis Ventures, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
July 07, 2020
Seller of Homeopathic Products Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On June 19, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Washington Homeopathic Products, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
April 18, 2013
Cardio, Energy and Sexual Enhancement Supplement Distributor Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims
On December 21, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to ForMor Inc, dba ForMor International, following a facility inspection which found the company's Cardio Cocktail and Argenix dietary supplements to be adulterated because because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that do ...
Recalls & Warnings
August 28, 2013
Maker of Sexual Enhancement Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On July 11, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Precise Nutrition International Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
October 24, 2012
FDA Seizes Many Supplements from New York Company Due To Drug Claims
On October 23, 2012, U.S. Marshalls, acting on behalf of the FDA, seized dietary supplements and unapproved drugs from Confidence, Inc., a supplement manufacturer in Port Washington, N.Y. The products included dietary supplements Dr.
Recalls & Warnings
June 15, 2003
FTC Alleges "Heartbar" Made Deceptive Claims About Effectiveness
On June 12, 2003, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that Unither Pharma, Inc. and United Therapeutics Corporation have agreed to settle FTC charges that they made deceptive claims in advertising for their HeartBar product.
Recalls & Warnings
November 02, 2012
Manufacturer of Prostate, Inflammation and Cholesterol Supplements Warned For Drug Claims
On October 15, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Ortho Molecular Products, Inc. for making drug claims about the following dietary supplements: Candicid Forte, Inflamma-bLOX, Lipitrol, Mucosagen, Prostatrol Forte, Resvoxitrol, Paracid Forte, VascuPak HTN and Lithium Orotate.
Recalls & Warnings
April 26, 2013
Seller of Immune, Cholesterol, Liver and Blood Sugar Products Warned For Drug Claims
On March 20, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Birkdale Medicinals LLC, following a review of the company's website which found statements made about Birkdale products, including Immune Response 247, Cholestat, Silymarin 81 and LevelStat, to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
February 13, 2013
Manufacturer of Heart, Multivitamin, Cranberry, and Longevity Supplements Warned For Adulteration and Drug Claims
On January 29, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to M.D.R. Fitness Corp. following a facility inspection which found violations of good manufacturing practices which cause the company's products to be adulterated.
Recalls & Warnings
April 04, 2013
Three More Sexual Enhancement Supplements Found To Contain Undeclared Drugs
On April 3, 2013, the FDA warned consumers that the sexual enhancement supplements AFFIRM XL, Love Rider and Ninja Mojo were found to contain undeclared erectile dysfunction drugs. Consumers are urged to stop using these supplements immediately.
Recalls & Warnings
February 19, 2014
Seller of Sexual Enhancement Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations
On February 11, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Maximus Niterider International Group, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
January 23, 2013
USPLabs Settles Class Action Lawsuit Over Controversial DMAA Ingredient
On December 18, 2012, a settlement was approved in the class action lawsuit against USPLabs, which alleged the company's use of the ingredient DMAA (1,3-dimethylamine) in the supplements OxyELITEPRO and Jacked3d was not safe or legal.
Recalls & Warnings
October 05, 2011
FDA Warns Nutrition Center Inc (Nutri-West) of Manufacturing Violations
The FDA published a Warning Letter dated September 9, 2011 to Nutrition Center Inc. (dba Nutri-West) informing the firm of manufacturing violations found during an inspection of the firm's facility in Douglas, Wyoming in April, 2011.
Recalls & Warnings
April 12, 2013
FDA Warns Consumers About The Dangers Of DMAA
On April 11, 2013, the FDA warned consumers about the dangers of dietary supplements containing the ingredient 1,3-dimethylamylamine (DMAA).
Recalls & Warnings
March 21, 2013
FDA Warns Consumers: Three Sexual Enhancement Supplements Found To Contain Drugs
On March 21, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use three sexual enhancement dietary supplements, Rock-It Man, Libido Sexual Enhancer, and Stiff Days, because they were found to contain sildenafil or sildenafil analogues.
Recalls & Warnings
February 20, 2013
FDA Warns USPLabs For Adulteration and Drug Claims
On December 4, 2012 the FDA issued a warning letter to USPLabs, LLC following facility inspections which found the company's products, including dietary supplements Jacked3d, OxyElite Pro, Prime, and Super Cissus, to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that ...
Recalls & Warnings
April 29, 2014
Seller of B Vitamins, CoQ10, Amino Acids and Other Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims
On April 1, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bio-Recovery, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
July 27, 2012
Prescription and Street Drug Alternatives Found in Male Enhancement, Mood, and Sleep Supplements
On July 10, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Evol Nutrition Associates, Inc. subsequent to a 2011 inspection which found a number of the company's products contained prescription and investigational drugs and were misbranded.
Recalls & Warnings
August 31, 2004
Two Makers of Weight Loss and Sex Enhancement Supplements Stopped From Making Unsubstantiated Claims
On August 27, 2004, the Federal Trade Commmission (FTC) reported that two Maine-based dietary supplement marketers and their principals have agreed to settle FTC charges that they made deceptive advertising claims about their dietary supplement products, in violation of federal law.
