warning

Who is likely to be deficient? Normally, the body makes enough arginine, even when it is lacking in the diet. However, during times of unusual stress (including infection, burns, and injury), the body may not be able to keep up with increased requirements.

How much is usually taken? Most people do not need to take extra arginine. While some people with serious infections, burns, or other trauma should take arginine, appropriate amounts must be determined by a doctor. Levels used in research vary considerably (2–30 grams per day). Most research on cardiovascular disease has used between 6 and 20 grams per day. Optimal intakes remain unknown and are likely to vary depending upon the individual.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Arginine has so far appeared to be free of obvious side effects. However, longer-term studies are needed to confirm its safety.

People with kidney or liver disease should consult their doctor before supplementing with arginine. Some doctors believe that people with herpes (either cold sores or genital herpes) should not take arginine supplements, because of the possibility that arginine might stimulate replication of the virus.

Administration of large amounts of arginine to animals has been found both to promote13 and to interfere with cancer growth.14 In preliminary research, high intake (30 grams per day) of arginine has increased cancer cell growth in humans.15 On the other hand, in people with cancer, arginine has been found to stimulate the immune system.16 At this time it remains unclear whether arginine is dangerous or helpful for people with cancer.

Arginine works with ornithine in the synthesis of growth hormone.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with arginine.

I read up on the subject because my friend who didnt grow well was told that this hormone could cause cancer. I was going to go to gnc and buy some but im kinda scared now. Also ornithine with it… is that nessisary or optional for growth