L-Lysine

Lysine is an amino acid (building block of protein). Unlike some other amino acids, the human body cannot make lysine; therefore it must be eaten in the diet. Sources of lysine include meat, fish, dairy, eggs, and some plants such as soy and other legumes.

Lysine is taken by mouth or applied directly to the skin for preventing and treating cold sores (caused by the virus called herpes simplex labialis).

Lysine is taken by mouth to improve athletic performance and for improving symptoms of schizophrenia. Lysine is also used to reduce symptoms of canker sores, and for diabetes, high triglyceride levels in the blood, muscle strength, stress, and a metabolic condition called metabolic alkalosis.

Lysine is applied to the skin for bed sores.

How does it work?

Lysine seems to prevent the herpes virus from growing.

Cold sores (herpes simplex labialis).
Immune support.

By Mouth:

For cold sores (herpes simplex labialis): 1000 mg of lysine taken daily in up to two divide doses for up to 12 months, or 1000 mg taken three times daily for 6 months has been used. For preventing cold sores from recurring, 500-1248 mg taken daily or 1000 mg taken three times daily has been used.

Applied to the Skin:

For treating cold sores (herpes simplex labialis): a specific combination of lysine plus zinc oxide and 14 other ingredients (Super Lysine Plus +) applied every 2 hours for 11 days has been used.

Lysine is SAFE for most people when taken by mouth at recommended doses for up to one year, or when applied to the skin short-term. It can cause side effects such as stomach pain and diarrhea.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking lysine if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Kidney disease: There is one report of kidney disease linked with taking lysine supplements. If you have a kidney disease, check with your healthcare provider before taking lysine.

Osteoporosis: Using Lysine with calcium supplements might increase calcium absorption.

Intolerance to lysinuric protein: Lysine supplementation might cause diarrhea and stomach cramps in children who are intolerant to lysinuric protein.