Arginine is an amino acid that isn't essential for human performance but may be used to treat cardiovascular disease. Arginine is a supplement that may be given in an oral pill form or in higher doses via an injection. MayoClinc.com states that injections of arginine have caused shortness of breath, skin rashes and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that could lead to death if not treated promptly. Before taking arginine, you should talk with your doctor to prevent drug interactions and adverse reactions.
Arginine Allergy
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to arginine may not develop the first few times you take the supplement. The first time you take the supplement your immune system identifies it as a harmful substance that could harm the body, although it is safe when used by most people, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The immune system creates antibodies specifically to fight against arginine. The next few doses you take, the immune system strengthens its defenses until the antibodies cause a chemical chain reaction that produces obvious symptoms. An allergic reaction can take time to develop symptoms or symptoms may develop quickly.
Reactions
After the body has created immunoglobulin E antibodies, the antibodies cause mast cells to produce histamine. As histamine increases in soft tissue, inflammation occurs, leading to common allergy symptoms. Inflammation in different parts of the body can cause wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, cramping, hives, eczema, general skin rashes, sinus congestion and a metallic taste in the mouth. Any reactions need to be reported to your doctor. Not all symptoms are the result of an allergic reaction and may be a common side effect of the supplement.
Anaphylaxis
If the immune system causes the entire body to experience an allergic reaction at the same time, your body will enter a state of shock, which can lead to death. Anaphylaxis symptoms typically develop quickly, in a matter of seconds and can cause facial swelling, throat swelling, hives, a sudden drop in blood pressure, light-headedness, dizziness, the inability to breathe and flushing of the skin, according to MedlinePlus.
Treatment
If you develop anaphylaxis from taking arginine supplements, you will need an injection of epinephrine. Epinephrine is synthetic adrenalin that helps restore your body to its normal functionality. Epinephrine injections will only provide relief for 15 minutes. Go to the emergency room if you have to use an epinephrine injection.
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