What Are The Dangers Of Nitric Oxide Supplements?

Nitric oxide supplements are usually made up of an amino acid called L-arginine, which increases levels of nitric oxide in your blood, and they may contain alpha-ketoglutarate, a substance your body needs for energy production. Nitric oxide supplements can have adverse effects and may interact with medications. Speak to your doctor before taking these supplements.

Why Take It?

Increasing nitric oxide in your blood improves blood flow, so nitric oxide supplements are used with the hope they'll improve blood vessel health and in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Bodybuilders and weightlifters take nitric oxide supplements with the belief that the increased blood flow will bring additional oxygen and nutrients to muscle tissues. You should see your doctor if you believe you're at risk for cardiovascular disease or if you have erectile dysfunction.

Safety Concerns

Arginine is found in a variety of foods, and it's unlikely you'll get too much unless you take nitric oxide supplements that contain L-arginine. Drugs.com states the typical dosage for L-argnine is 6 to 30 g per day. It appears to be safe for short-term use, but it's not known if long-term use is safe in pregnant women or during breastfeeding. MedlinePlus states it may make herpes infections worse and may increase the risk of death after a heart attack.

Side Effects

MedlinePlus states the side effects of L-arginine include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, gout, blood abnormalities, allergies, inflamed airway, increased asthma symptoms and low blood pressure. A bitter taste in your mouth when you take higher doses is an additional side effect. "Natural Standard," a peer-reviewed collaboration focusing on alternative therapies, states L-arginine use can also cause hives, lower back pain and restless legs.

Interactions

L-arginine may interfere with medications that increase blood flow -- such as nitrates -- high blood pressure medications and medications used to treat erectile dysfunction. According to MedlinePlus, it should not be used along with xylitol, an alcohol sweetener, because the combination my prevent the liver from making glucagon, a hormone that stimulates an increase in blood sugar. Nitric oxide supplements should not be taken by people with kidney disease or who are going to undergo surgery. Speak to your doctor before taking nitric oxide supplements.