L-Lysine, more commonly referred to simply as lysine, is an essential amino acid. Lysine supplements are often used to treat or prevent cold sores as the result of herpes simplex labialis -- also known as HSV-1 virus -- outbreaks. Lysine prevents the replication of HSV-1. Lysine is generally safe to take orally, but consult your physician. Lysine tablets are available over the counter in 500 mg and 1,000 mg dosages. A dose of 1,000 mg per day is often sufficient to prevent HSV-1 outbreaks. A dose of 3,000 mg of lysine per day is generally required to treat HSV-1 outbreaks.
Step 1
Take a lysine tablet by mouth with a large glass of water in the morning. Lysine should be taken on an empty stomach for best absorption. Take 500 mg for prevention and 1,000 mg to treat an outbreak.
Step 2
Take a second 1,000 mg lysine tablet in the afternoon if you are experiencing an HSV-1 outbreak.
Step 3
Take a 500 mg lysine tablet in the evening on an empty stomach for prevention. Take your third 1,000 mg lysine tablet in the evening if you are experiencing an HSV-1 outbreak.
References
- "Foundations of Nursing"; Lois White, Gena Duncan and Wendy Baumle; 2010
- "Clinical Dermatology"; Richard Weller, John A. Hunter, John Savin and Mark Dahl; 2008
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