NO2 is a popular sports nutrition product made by MRI that is marketed as increasing the amount of nitric oxide circulating in the blood. NO or nitric oxide is a free-form gas with many effects on the body. Nitric oxide controls blood flow and helps cells transmit messages. The amino acid L-arginine is a direct precursor to nitric oxide. All NO2-like supplements are L-arginine derivatives such as L-arginine base, Alpha Keto-Glutarate and HCL. NO2 supplementation may boost athletic performance and improve blood flow for heart health and antiaging benefits. However, there are some side effects that should be noted when considering nitric oxide products like NO2.
Vasodilation
NO2 and similar products create an effect in the body known as vasodilation. Nitric oxide allows smooth muscle tissue in blood vessels to relax, opening up pathways for blood flow. This side effect has many benefits for athletic performance, antiaging and heart health. Weightlifters are familiar with the "pump," which occurs when blood and oxygen fill working muscles, making them feel fuller. Nitric oxide products claim to increase the pump, delivering more nutrients to working muscles due to vasodilation. Increased oxygen and blood flow may have other healthful benefits for the heart and antiaging. Adverse side effects from vasodilation include excessive bleeding and low blood pressure. If you're on heart medications, like blood pressure medication, check with your physician before using any of these products. NO2 supplements mimic this effect and may cause the other adverse effects on the heart when combined with certain drugs.
Herpes Outbreaks
NO2 supplements may aggravate herpes if you have any form of the herpes virus. L-arginine, the main ingredient in NO products, can drastically impact the replication of the herpes virus, causing outbreaks or worsening existing conditions. The amino acid L-lysine helps inhibit the replication of the herpes virus. A diet consisting of low lysine to arginine ratios may be responsible for more frequent herpes outbreaks. Further supplementation with NO2 products can make the condition worse. Anecdotal reports suggest that it is not uncommon to experience a herpes outbreak within days of beginning NO2 supplementation. Those with genital herpes or frequent cold sores should avoid NO2 products, decrease arginine consumption, and consider supplementing with lysine. Foods naturally high in arginine include chocolate, meat, seafood, and nuts and seeds.
Other Side Effects
Overdosing with L-arginine from NO2-like products can be toxic. Adverse effects on waste-handling organs, such as the liver and kidneys, are possible. Too much L-arginine can cause diarrhea, weakness nausea, headaches, increased heart rate and palpitations, water retention, fatigue, skin irritations and dry mouth. Fainting is a common anecdotal side effect reported by users. Serious side effects may include breathing problems, severe allergy or rash, hives, itching, wheezing or life-threatening asthma complications. The Mayo Clinic reports a rare side effect known as anaphylaxis, or shock involving sudden chills, sweating, tremors, vomiting and fainting. Recent heart attack patients, those on blood thinners, pregnant or nursing mothers, and/or those with liver disease or sickle cell anemia should avoid NO2 products completely.
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