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L-Arginine is an amino acid with the formula CN₃CHCO₂H that is essential to the production of nitric oxide, which sustains erections. This is a popular dietary supplement found in pills used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It has been touted as safe for enhancing sexual performance. Although many studies support the safety and efficacy of short term use (1), our team at Stamen has found based on our own independent research that long-term use may be highly dangerous.  We compiled a list of the biggest health concerns associated with using the long-term use of L-arginine, and why this ingredient is NOT included in our product.  

Heart Health Risks

Harvard Medical reported that the use L-Arginine lead to fatal results for patients with heart disease and heart attack survivors (2). The amino acid can cause excessive blood pressure lowering, blood valve expansion to the heart, and unstable potassium spikes that could be dangerous to those with pre-existing heart conditions. Other studies support these findings and have discovered an association between L-Arginine and coronary heart disease (CHD). "A significant negative association was observed between [L-arginine intake] and changes of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure" (3). You might get a boost in the short term, but what could it cost you in the long term, Brother?

Harmful Side Effects

• Elevated Cholesterol
• Heart Burn
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Scrotal Itching

Drug Interactions

• Blood-pressure-lowering medications: Such as Vasotec, Lasix, etc.
• Erectile dysfunction medications: Such as Viagra, Cialis, etc.
• Blood-thinning medications: Such as Plavix, Lovenox, etc.
• Antidiabetic medications: Such as Actos,Glucotrol, etc.
• Diuretic medications: Such as Midamor, Dyrenium, etc.

We recommend speaking with a healthcare professional to discuss any questions and engaging in your own evidence-based review before using L-Arginine. It's our mission at Stamen to share information that can help you make informed choices with your wellness journey.

Footnotes

1. McNeal CJ, Meininger CJ, Wilborn CD, Tekwe CD, Wu G. Safety of dietary supplementation with arginine in adult humans. Amino Acids. 2018. [PubMed]

2. 3 Supplements That May Harm Your Heart. 2021. [HarvardHealthPublishing]

3. Bahadoran Z, Mirmiran P, Tahmasebinejad Z, Azizi F. Dietary L-arginine intake and the incidence of coronary heart disease: Tehran lipid and glucose study. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2016 [PubMed]