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Home Services Experienced Pros Happiness Guarantee. Amazon Web Services Scalable Cloud Computing Services. Box Office Mojo Find Movie Box Office Data. This article will discuss what you should know about NO supplements—including their potential uses, side effects, interactions, and more.

Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States. They can cause interactions with medications or have other safety concerns. While more extensive research is necessary in regard to effectiveness, people use nitric oxide NO supplements for various health conditions.

Research is most robust for NO's effects concerning the following:. NO supplements may contain substances—like the L-arginine amino acid. And your body may use and turn L-arginine into NO, which widens blood vessels and improves blood flow.

Due to these effects, NO supplements may support heart health. In fact, a systematic review and meta-analysis analysis of a collection of studies showed that L-arginine increased NO levels and blood flow in select groups of people, such as people with heart disease. These effects may also apply to people with excess weight , type 2 diabetes , or both.

These results may support L-arginine's effects on improving blood vessel function in people with heart disease risk. But it's unclear how effective NO supplements—like L-arginine—are because of variability important differences between the studies. For example, there were differences in dosage forms, dosages amounts or strengths , and how long L-arginine worked.

Additional research with higher-quality clinical trials is warranted—especially due to a concern that L-arginine might cause more harm in people with a recent heart attack.

High blood pressure in pregnancy is a dangerous condition that may negatively affect the parent and unborn fetus. In an older study, pregnant people had lower blood pressure with long-term use of NO supplements, such as L-arginine.

However, conflicting evidence exists for this use. More research with higher-quality clinical trials is necessary to provide additional data.

A review suggested that L-arginine alone or in combination with other medications might help people with erectile dysfunction ED. The review article also mentioned a study supporting the use of L-citrulline—another NO supplement—in people with mild ED.

But future research with higher-quality and larger studies is still necessary. A review article looked at short-term use of NO supplements—particularly L-citrulline and nitrates. It showed some promise in relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow to increase muscle performance, size, and strength.

As for L-arginine, there is little evidence to support its use in improving athletic performance. The evidence for these NO supplements is mixed. However, L-citrulline and nitrates seemed to be the most promising because they are better absorbed into the bloodstream when compared to L-arginine.

But additional research is still warranted, especially longer-term studies. In recent years, there has been a lot of progress toward understanding nitric oxide NO and its effects in the human body.

Although additional extensive clinical trials are still necessary, research within the past few decades have shown a possible relationship between NO deficiency and several medical conditions.

In general, NO levels might depend on the following:. If you have a nitric oxide NO deficiency, you'll experience such short-term symptoms as blood vessel dysfunction and high blood pressure.

In general, a low NO level is likely an early sign that hints at an onset of a chronic long-term medical condition. Long-term or worsening NO deficiency symptoms may include the following:. Nitric oxide NO supplements, as with many medications and natural products, may have side effects.

Common side effects of NO supplements may include:. Severe side effects are possible, especially with large doses of magnesium. Examples of serious side effects include:. If you're having a severe allergic reaction or if any of your symptoms feel life-threatening, call and get medical help right away.

A healthcare provider may advise against using nitric oxide NO supplements if any of the following applies to you:. Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.

Each NO supplement may contain different ingredients in different amounts. Moreover, further, extensive research with higher-quality clinical trials is warranted to better understand the effects and safety of NO supplements. For these reasons, there are no guidelines on the appropriate dosage to take NO supplements for any condition.

If you take NO supplements, follow a healthcare provider's suggestions and product label instructions. Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration FDA does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed.

Choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as U. Pharmacopeia USP , ConsumerLab. com, or NSF. org, whenever possible.

However, even if supplements are third-party tested, they are not necessarily safe for all or effective in general. Therefore, talking to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and asking about potential interactions with other supplements or medications is important.

In general, L-arginine and L-citrulline are considered safe. However, each nitric oxide NO supplement might contain different ingredients in various amounts. So, it's impossible to know the overall safety of all NO supplements.

For this reason, more information about the safety, toxicity, and overdoses of individual NO supplements in humans is needed. Symptoms of overdoses with NO supplements, however, are likely similar to its potential common and serious side effects—just excessive and more severe.

For example, high NO levels might result in lung injury and methemoglobinemia , which can be life-threatening. In methemoglobinemia , your red blood cells RBCs are having trouble transporting oxygen throughout your body.

Symptoms may include:. Nitric oxide NO supplements might interact with the following:. It is essential to carefully read a supplement's ingredients list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included.

Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications. In general, nitric oxide NO supplements—like L-arginine, L-citrulline, and nitrates—have potential uses for:. Other potentially similar supplements include the following:.

Only combine multiple natural products after first talking with a healthcare provider, pharmacist, or dietitian. Checking in can help you avoid possible harmful interactions and side effects and ensure you're giving these supplements a fair trial at appropriate doses.

There are several food sources of nitric oxide. Nutrition guidelines typically emphasize food sources of nutrients to improve health. Food sources of nutrients are preferable to supplements.

However, there is still a place for supplements for certain groups of people, such as those with certain medical conditions. Some foods are rich in nitrates and nitrites. And through your diet, your body may convert the nitrates and nitrites to nitric oxide.

Examples of foods that are good sources of nitrates or nitrites are:. In general, fresh and leafy green vegetables are good options. Amino acids may also be found in food. For example, foods that contain L-arginine include:. Nitric oxide NO supplements don't actually have the nitric oxide gas. Instead, NO supplements typically contain substances, such as amino acids—like L-arginine and L-citrulline—and nitrates.

And your body may convert these substances into nitric oxide. In general, NO supplements are likely commonly available as capsules. Other dosage forms of NO supplements include:.

But some of these other dosage forms might be in combination with other ingredients. You may also see vegetarian and vegan options. What is best for you will depend on form preference and what you hope to get in terms of effects.

Each product may work a bit differently, depending on the form. Following a healthcare provider's recommendations or label directions is essential. Aside from diet or supplements, exercise is another way to increase nitric oxide NO levels.

Nitric oxide NO supplements contain substances that your body may turn into NO, which is a naturally occurring gas that relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow. NO supplements have a few potential uses for:.

Since more extensive research is needed, you must ensure the diagnosis and treatment of your medical conditions are completed on time. Before using NO supplements, ask a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider to weigh in on the process of deciding what may benefit you.

Nitrite turns into nitric oxide in the body. In general, you may increase nitric oxide with diet, supplements, or exercise. To safely take supplements—like nitric oxide NO supplements—inform your healthcare providers and pharmacists about any and all medications you take.

This includes over-the-counter OTC , herbal, natural medicines, and supplements. They can help prevent possible interactions and side effects.

The Department of Defense Dietary Supplement Resource: Operation Supplement Safety. Nitric oxide supplements. Koolwal A, Manohar J. S, Rao TSS, et al. L-arginine and erectile dysfunction.

Examples of serious side effects include:. If you're having a severe allergic reaction or if any of your symptoms feel life-threatening, call and get medical help right away.

A healthcare provider may advise against using nitric oxide NO supplements if any of the following applies to you:. Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.

Each NO supplement may contain different ingredients in different amounts. Moreover, further, extensive research with higher-quality clinical trials is warranted to better understand the effects and safety of NO supplements.

For these reasons, there are no guidelines on the appropriate dosage to take NO supplements for any condition. If you take NO supplements, follow a healthcare provider's suggestions and product label instructions. Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration FDA does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed.

Choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as U. Pharmacopeia USP , ConsumerLab. com, or NSF. org, whenever possible. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, they are not necessarily safe for all or effective in general.

Therefore, talking to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and asking about potential interactions with other supplements or medications is important. In general, L-arginine and L-citrulline are considered safe.

However, each nitric oxide NO supplement might contain different ingredients in various amounts. So, it's impossible to know the overall safety of all NO supplements.

For this reason, more information about the safety, toxicity, and overdoses of individual NO supplements in humans is needed. Symptoms of overdoses with NO supplements, however, are likely similar to its potential common and serious side effects—just excessive and more severe.

For example, high NO levels might result in lung injury and methemoglobinemia , which can be life-threatening. In methemoglobinemia , your red blood cells RBCs are having trouble transporting oxygen throughout your body.

Symptoms may include:. Nitric oxide NO supplements might interact with the following:. It is essential to carefully read a supplement's ingredients list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included.

Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.

In general, nitric oxide NO supplements—like L-arginine, L-citrulline, and nitrates—have potential uses for:. Other potentially similar supplements include the following:.

Only combine multiple natural products after first talking with a healthcare provider, pharmacist, or dietitian. Checking in can help you avoid possible harmful interactions and side effects and ensure you're giving these supplements a fair trial at appropriate doses.

There are several food sources of nitric oxide. Nutrition guidelines typically emphasize food sources of nutrients to improve health. Food sources of nutrients are preferable to supplements.

However, there is still a place for supplements for certain groups of people, such as those with certain medical conditions. Some foods are rich in nitrates and nitrites. And through your diet, your body may convert the nitrates and nitrites to nitric oxide. Examples of foods that are good sources of nitrates or nitrites are:.

In general, fresh and leafy green vegetables are good options. Amino acids may also be found in food. For example, foods that contain L-arginine include:.

Nitric oxide NO supplements don't actually have the nitric oxide gas. Instead, NO supplements typically contain substances, such as amino acids—like L-arginine and L-citrulline—and nitrates.

And your body may convert these substances into nitric oxide. In general, NO supplements are likely commonly available as capsules. Other dosage forms of NO supplements include:. But some of these other dosage forms might be in combination with other ingredients. You may also see vegetarian and vegan options.

What is best for you will depend on form preference and what you hope to get in terms of effects. Each product may work a bit differently, depending on the form. Following a healthcare provider's recommendations or label directions is essential. Aside from diet or supplements, exercise is another way to increase nitric oxide NO levels.

Nitric oxide NO supplements contain substances that your body may turn into NO, which is a naturally occurring gas that relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow. NO supplements have a few potential uses for:. Since more extensive research is needed, you must ensure the diagnosis and treatment of your medical conditions are completed on time.

Before using NO supplements, ask a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider to weigh in on the process of deciding what may benefit you. Nitrite turns into nitric oxide in the body.

In general, you may increase nitric oxide with diet, supplements, or exercise. To safely take supplements—like nitric oxide NO supplements—inform your healthcare providers and pharmacists about any and all medications you take.

This includes over-the-counter OTC , herbal, natural medicines, and supplements. They can help prevent possible interactions and side effects. The Department of Defense Dietary Supplement Resource: Operation Supplement Safety. Nitric oxide supplements. Koolwal A, Manohar J. S, Rao TSS, et al.

L-arginine and erectile dysfunction. Journal of Psychosexual Health. Food and Drug Administration. This article explains how creatine can improve your exercise…. There are several dietary supplements that can help increase muscle mass and strength. Here are the 6 best supplements to gain more muscle.

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Nutrition Evidence Based 5 Ways to Increase Nitric Oxide Naturally. Medically reviewed by Jared Meacham, Ph. Vegetables Antioxidants Supplements Limit mouthwash Exercise Bottom line Nitric oxide is a compound of one nitrogen atom and one oxygen atom that plays a vital role in the body.

Eat vegetables high in nitrates. Increase your intake of antioxidants. Use nitric-oxide-boosting supplements. Limit your use of mouthwash. Get your blood flowing with exercise. The bottom line. How we reviewed this article: History. Feb 12, Written By Gavin Van De Walle. Medically Reviewed By Jared Meacham, Ph.

Mar 10, Written By Gavin Van De Walle. Share this article. Read this next. The 10 Best Foods to Boost Nitric Oxide Levels. By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD. How Creatine Boosts Exercise Performance. The 6 Best Supplements to Gain Muscle.

Supplements intended to increase nitric oxide are commonly promoted as performance enhancers. While the performance-enhancing benefits of L-arginine are minimal, nitrate and L-citrulline may be worthwhile. Nitric oxide production may be reduced in people with type 2 diabetes This leads to poor blood vessel health, which can lead to conditions like high blood pressure, kidney disease, and heart disease over time.

Therefore, supplements that increase nitric oxide may have important implications for diabetes treatment and disease prevention. One review of 10 studies found that supplementing with L-arginine could significantly reduce insulin levels in people without diabetes Another study in people looked at the effects of L-arginine on preventing or delaying the progression of type 2 diabetes While L-arginine did not prevent people from developing diabetes, it did increase insulin sensitivity and improve blood sugar control However, other research has found no effect of L-arginine on fasting blood sugar levels and blood sugar control in people with diabetes Therefore, until more research is available, it is premature to recommend taking L-arginine supplements to treat or manage diabetes.

People with diabetes have impaired nitric oxide production, which can lead to harmful health effects. L-arginine has been shown to reduce insulin levels and slow the progression of diabetes, but more research is needed before it can be recommended. Nitric oxide supplements are generally safe when taken in appropriate amounts 13 , According to some older research, L-arginine taken in doses above 10 g can cause stomach discomfort and diarrhea Beetroot juice supplements can also turn your urine and stool a dark red color.

This is a common but harmless side effect Nitric oxide supplements are generally considered safe. However, there are some side effects to be aware of, including potential stomach discomfort and diarrhea, as well as dark red stool and urine. Many supplements are claimed to increase nitric oxide in the body and provide impressive benefits for health and performance.

However, other supplements, such as French maritime pine bark extract, have also been shown to increase or maintain nitric oxide levels. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

VIEW ALL HISTORY. Nitric oxide is a molecule produced in your body that may offer various health benefits — from improved exercise performance to better brain function…. Maintaining optimal levels of nitric oxide in your body is essential for your overall health.

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This article will discuss what you should know about NO supplements—including their potential uses, side effects, interactions, and more. Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States. They can cause interactions with medications or have other safety concerns.

While more extensive research is necessary in regard to effectiveness, people use nitric oxide NO supplements for various health conditions.

Research is most robust for NO's effects concerning the following:. NO supplements may contain substances—like the L-arginine amino acid. And your body may use and turn L-arginine into NO, which widens blood vessels and improves blood flow.

Due to these effects, NO supplements may support heart health. In fact, a systematic review and meta-analysis analysis of a collection of studies showed that L-arginine increased NO levels and blood flow in select groups of people, such as people with heart disease.

These effects may also apply to people with excess weight , type 2 diabetes , or both. These results may support L-arginine's effects on improving blood vessel function in people with heart disease risk. But it's unclear how effective NO supplements—like L-arginine—are because of variability important differences between the studies.

For example, there were differences in dosage forms, dosages amounts or strengths , and how long L-arginine worked. Additional research with higher-quality clinical trials is warranted—especially due to a concern that L-arginine might cause more harm in people with a recent heart attack.

High blood pressure in pregnancy is a dangerous condition that may negatively affect the parent and unborn fetus. In an older study, pregnant people had lower blood pressure with long-term use of NO supplements, such as L-arginine.

However, conflicting evidence exists for this use. More research with higher-quality clinical trials is necessary to provide additional data. A review suggested that L-arginine alone or in combination with other medications might help people with erectile dysfunction ED.

The review article also mentioned a study supporting the use of L-citrulline—another NO supplement—in people with mild ED.

But future research with higher-quality and larger studies is still necessary. A review article looked at short-term use of NO supplements—particularly L-citrulline and nitrates. It showed some promise in relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow to increase muscle performance, size, and strength.

As for L-arginine, there is little evidence to support its use in improving athletic performance. The evidence for these NO supplements is mixed. However, L-citrulline and nitrates seemed to be the most promising because they are better absorbed into the bloodstream when compared to L-arginine.

But additional research is still warranted, especially longer-term studies. In recent years, there has been a lot of progress toward understanding nitric oxide NO and its effects in the human body.

Although additional extensive clinical trials are still necessary, research within the past few decades have shown a possible relationship between NO deficiency and several medical conditions. In general, NO levels might depend on the following:. If you have a nitric oxide NO deficiency, you'll experience such short-term symptoms as blood vessel dysfunction and high blood pressure.

In general, a low NO level is likely an early sign that hints at an onset of a chronic long-term medical condition. Long-term or worsening NO deficiency symptoms may include the following:. Nitric oxide NO supplements, as with many medications and natural products, may have side effects.

Common side effects of NO supplements may include:. Severe side effects are possible, especially with large doses of magnesium. Examples of serious side effects include:. If you're having a severe allergic reaction or if any of your symptoms feel life-threatening, call and get medical help right away.

A healthcare provider may advise against using nitric oxide NO supplements if any of the following applies to you:. Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.

Each NO supplement may contain different ingredients in different amounts. Moreover, further, extensive research with higher-quality clinical trials is warranted to better understand the effects and safety of NO supplements.

For these reasons, there are no guidelines on the appropriate dosage to take NO supplements for any condition. If you take NO supplements, follow a healthcare provider's suggestions and product label instructions. Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration FDA does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed.

Choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as U. Pharmacopeia USP , ConsumerLab. com, or NSF. org, whenever possible. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, they are not necessarily safe for all or effective in general.

Therefore, talking to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and asking about potential interactions with other supplements or medications is important.

In general, L-arginine and L-citrulline are considered safe. However, each nitric oxide NO supplement might contain different ingredients in various amounts. So, it's impossible to know the overall safety of all NO supplements.

For this reason, more information about the safety, toxicity, and overdoses of individual NO supplements in humans is needed. Symptoms of overdoses with NO supplements, however, are likely similar to its potential common and serious side effects—just excessive and more severe.

For example, high NO levels might result in lung injury and methemoglobinemia , which can be life-threatening. In methemoglobinemia , your red blood cells RBCs are having trouble transporting oxygen throughout your body.

Symptoms may include:. Nitric oxide NO supplements might interact with the following:. It is essential to carefully read a supplement's ingredients list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included.

Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.

In general, nitric oxide NO supplements—like L-arginine, L-citrulline, and nitrates—have potential uses for:. Other potentially similar supplements include the following:. Only combine multiple natural products after first talking with a healthcare provider, pharmacist, or dietitian.

Checking in can help you avoid possible harmful interactions and side effects and ensure you're giving these supplements a fair trial at appropriate doses. There are several food sources of nitric oxide. Nutrition guidelines typically emphasize food sources of nutrients to improve health.

Food sources of nutrients are preferable to supplements. However, there is still a place for supplements for certain groups of people, such as those with certain medical conditions.

Some foods are rich in nitrates and nitrites. And through your diet, your body may convert the nitrates and nitrites to nitric oxide.

Examples of foods that are good sources of nitrates or nitrites are:. In general, fresh and leafy green vegetables are good options. Amino acids may also be found in food. For example, foods that contain L-arginine include:. Nitric oxide NO supplements don't actually have the nitric oxide gas.

Instead, NO supplements typically contain substances, such as amino acids—like L-arginine and L-citrulline—and nitrates. And your body may convert these substances into nitric oxide. In general, NO supplements are likely commonly available as capsules. Other dosage forms of NO supplements include:.

But some of these other dosage forms might be in combination with other ingredients. You may also see vegetarian and vegan options. What is best for you will depend on form preference and what you hope to get in terms of effects. Each product may work a bit differently, depending on the form.

Following a healthcare provider's recommendations or label directions is essential. Aside from diet or supplements, exercise is another way to increase nitric oxide NO levels. Nitric oxide NO supplements contain substances that your body may turn into NO, which is a naturally occurring gas that relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow.

NO supplements have a few potential uses for:. Since more extensive research is needed, you must ensure the diagnosis and treatment of your medical conditions are completed on time. Before using NO supplements, ask a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider to weigh in on the process of deciding what may benefit you.

Nitrite turns into nitric oxide in the body. In general, you may increase nitric oxide with diet, supplements, or exercise. To safely take supplements—like nitric oxide NO supplements—inform your healthcare providers and pharmacists about any and all medications you take.

This includes over-the-counter OTC , herbal, natural medicines, and supplements. They can help prevent possible interactions and side effects. The Department of Defense Dietary Supplement Resource: Operation Supplement Safety. Nitric oxide supplements.

Koolwal A, Manohar J. S, Rao TSS, et al. L-arginine and erectile dysfunction. Back to top. Get to Know Us. Make Money with Us. Amazon Payment Products. Let Us Help You. Conditions of Use Privacy Notice Your Ads Privacy Choices © , Amazon.

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Interestingly, a new study from a team of Chinese and American researchers found that inhaled nitric oxide could potentially be a treatment for critically ill COVID patients. Nitric oxide is associated with roles in neurotransmission, hormone signaling, and the relaxation of blood vessels, explains Marco Anzures, M.

Supplementation of these compounds provides the body with the building blocks for nitric oxide production. Some say supplementing with nitric oxide increases the amount of the substance in your blood, which might bring several health benefits.

But, the science is inconclusive. And according to a statement from the United States Anti-Doping Agency, pre-workout supplements like these may contain large amounts of other ingredients like caffeine. So far, here's what we know about nitric oxide and its potential benefits:.

One of the primary functions of nitric oxide is widening blood vessels to increase blood flow, or vasodilation, Rothstein says. This helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles when you exercise, which could help you perform better and work out longer.

Some research shows that L-arginine, found in nitric oxide supplements, could improve fitness performance for runners, cyclists, and swimmers. But, other research has shown little to no effect. A small study also showed that L-citrulline could help boost aerobic performance and decrease muscle soreness after working out.

A review of several studies related to the effects of dietary ingredients linked with nitric oxide and exercise performance found mixed results: the review concluded that while nitric oxide supplements may "improve tolerance" to aerobic and anaerobic exercise in people who either aren't in shape or are moderately trained, there seems to be no benefit in highly trained people.

More research is needed to know for sure whether the supplements actually play a role in your workout performance. But these supplements may help you get extra benefits from lifting. High blood pressure happens when the force of the blood that pushes against the walls of your blood vessels is too high.

This can cause health consequences like heart disease and stroke. One is blood flow and blood pressure regulation. The blood flow regulation that nitric oxide helps with plays a role in multiple body functions, including maintaining erections. Along with erections , it could increase performance in bed and help you last longer.

A study showed that L-arginine supplements might enhance the effects of a common erectile dysfunction drug, but studies on people without a dysfunction are limited. L-citrulline might also help treat erectile dysfunction, research shows.

Supplements might also reduce the effects of type 2 diabetes. Rytlewski K, Olszanecki R, Korbut R, et al. Effects of prolonged oral supplementation with l-arginine on blood pressure and nitric oxide synthesis in preeclampsia. Eur J Clin Invest. Magee L, von Dadelszen P.

Prevention and treatment of postpartum hypertension. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Gonzalez AM, Townsend JR, Pinzone AG, et al. Supplementation with nitric oxide precursors for strength performance: a review of the current literature. Tonelli AR, Haserodt S, Aytekin M, et al. Nitric oxide deficiency in pulmonary hypertension: pathobiology and implications for therapy.

Pulm Circ. Bryan NS. Nitric oxide deficiency is a primary driver of hypertension. Biochem Pharmacol. Almannai M, El-Hattab AW.

Nitric oxide deficiency in mitochondrial disorders: The utility of arginine and citrulline. Front Mol Neurosci. Pharmacological therapies, lifestyle choices and nitric oxide deficiency: a perfect storm.

Pharmacol Res. Inomax label. McNeal CJ, Meininger CJ, Reddy D, et al. Safety and effectiveness of arginine in adults. J Nutr. Grimble GK. Adverse gastrointestinal effects of arginine and related amino acids. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

Cardiovascular disease. Hypertension high blood pressure. Lentjes MAH. The balance between food and dietary supplements in the general population.

Proc Nutr Soc. FoodData Central: arginine. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. A guide to herbal remedies. By Ross Phan, PharmD, BCACP, BCGP, BCPS Ross is a writer for Verywell with years of experience practicing pharmacy in various settings.

She is also a board-certified clinical pharmacist and the founder of Off Script Consults. Use limited data to select advertising. Create profiles for personalised advertising.

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Develop and improve services. Use limited data to select content. List of Partners vendors. Dietary Supplements. By Ross Phan, PharmD, BCACP, BCGP, BCPS. Medically reviewed by Beth Thomas, PharmD. Table of Contents View All.

Table of Contents. Uses of Nitric Oxide. Nitric Oxide Deficiency. Side Effects. Similar Supplements. Frequently Asked Questions. Supplement Facts Active Ingredient s : Nitric oxide, L-arginine, L-citrulline, nitrates Alternate Names s : Nitric oxide, NO, nitric oxide supplements, nitric oxide boosters, Genosyl, Inomax, Noxivent Legal Status : Food, supplement, prescription medication Suggested Dose : May vary based on dosage form and medical condition Safety Considerations : Possible side effects, interactions, and special considerations for children, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions What is nitric oxide? Nitric oxide is a naturally occurring gas in your body. What does nitric oxide do? In your body, nitric oxide can relax your blood vessels to increase blood flow.

What is the difference between nitric oxide and nitrites? How do I increase nitric oxide? How do I take nitric oxide safely?

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Also, people with a genetic condition called guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency GAMT may not be able to process arginine. They should not take L-arginine supplements.

L-arginine supplements can interact with several medications and other supplements. Ask your healthcare provider about taking it with:. Dietary supplements are not regulated by the U.

Food and Drug Administration FDA the way medicines are regulated. For this reason, supplements may contain unknown added ingredients, and they may contain less of the active ingredient than they advertise. Make sure to look for a seal by a third-party quality testing organization on the bottle.

These organizations test to make sure the product has the correct type and amount of ingredients listed and does not contain a harmful level of contaminants. Credible third-party testing organizations include:. In the case of nitric oxide supplementation, adding nitrate-rich foods to your diet may give you the benefits you want without the risks that come with taking dietary supplements.

Because nitric oxide is a highly reactive compound, it works quickly to affect many systems in the body. This can lead to several benefits when nitric oxide is balanced out by antioxidants.

However, you can take too much L-arginine which could lead to unhealthy levels of nitric oxide in your body. Once you have reached the oxidative stress state, your risk for developing diseases and other health problems increases.

Taking L-arginine supplements to increase nitric oxide levels can lead to side effects. Side effects of L-arginine may include:. Certain nitric oxide supplements also may trigger herpes outbreaks.

Research has also shown a link between high levels of nitric oxide and skin diseases like psoriasis, eczema, and skin cancer. Taking smaller doses or dividing up the doses of nitric oxide supplements may reduce the risk of side effects.

Nitric oxide is an important chemical messenger in the body. It can promote blood flow, help nerve cells communicate, and may improve immunity. Taking L-arginine supplements or eating a nitrate-rich diet may be beneficial for people with a variety of health problems, including high blood pressure, peripheral artery disease, and erectile dysfunction.

However, nitric oxide is a free radical that can lead to cell and tissue damage when taken in excess. Research about the exact benefits of nitric oxide supplementation with L-arginine is mixed and incomplete. Finally, in addition to causing side effects, L-arginine supplements can be dangerous for certain populations.

Talk to your doctor about the possible benefits and risks of nitric oxide for your body. National Library of Medicine: PubChem.

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