L-lysine is an essential amino acid you need to get from your diet because your body doesn't produce it naturally. Rich dietary sources of L-lysine -- also referred to as lysine -- include nuts, beans, eggs, cheese and certain types of fish and meat. If you don't get enough lysine from your daily diet, your doctor may recommend treatment with a lysine supplement. Be sure to talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with lysine supplementation before you begin treatment.
Benefits
If you have oral herpes -- a viral infection that causes cold sores -- you may benefit from treatment with a lysine supplement. Though research results remain controversial, supplementing your diet with lysine may help reduce the frequency or symptom severity of cold sore outbreaks, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains. Additionally, lysine helps your body absorb calcium and may help prevent bone loss caused by the degenerative bone disease osteoporosis; however, further research in humans is necessary to substantiate these purported benefits of lysine.
Adverse Side Effects
Treatment with up to 4,000 mg lysine each day typically does not cause adverse side effects, Drugs.com reports. Excessive or prolonged treatment with lysine supplement may increase your risk of developing gallstones. Seek care from your medical provider if you develop gallstone symptoms such as sudden abdominal, back or right shoulder pain while receiving treatment with lysine supplements.
Contraindications
Inform your physician of any health concerns or problems you may have before you begin using lysine supplement. The safety and efficacy of this amino acid supplement have not been adequately studied in pregnant or breast-feeding women. Consequently, expectant or nursing mothers should not take lysine supplements unless otherwise instructed by a medical professional. Additionally, avoid treatment with lysine supplements if you have liver or kidney disease until you speak with your doctor.
Medication Interactions
Before beginning treatment with a new medication or supplement, let your health care provider know of any current medications you are taking. Concomitant use of arginine and lysine may actually reduce the levels of lysine in your body, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. As of January 2011, lysine is not known to interact with any other medications or supplement.
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