FDA-Approved Glutamine

FDA-Approved Glutamine
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Protein is comprised of amino acids, which play an important role in your health. Protein foods supply varying amounts of about 20 primary amino acids. Amino acids such as glutamine are available as dietary supplements; however, NutreStore is the only Food and Drug Administration-approved glutamine used to treat short bowel syndrome. Consult your doctor if you are interested in taking NutreStore, because a prescription is necessary.

Glutamine

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in your body. It is considered nonessential because your body can usually make enough to meet its needs under normal circumstances. However, stress may deplete your glutamine levels. Glutamine supports proper digestion, immune function and brain function. Glutamine is beneficial for certain bowel conditions because it protects the lining of your gastrointestinal tract, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Uses and Difference

Prescription glutamine is used to treat glutamine deficiency and bowel conditions. Glutamine helps promote the healthy growth and function of cells in your stomach and intestines. The primary difference between glutamine sold as a dietary supplement and prescription glutamine is that prescription glutamine is FDA-approved to treat bowel conditions. This means that it is manufactured according to FDA standards to ensure purity. In addition, the glutamine sold as a dietary supplement is not generally identical to the glutamine your body produces.

NutreStore

NutreStore is a biocompatible prescription form of glutamine typically used to treat short bowel syndrome. This means it is identical to the glutamine your body produces. Short bowel syndrome is when you are unable to absorb nutrients due to injury or removal of part of your intestines. Nutrestore is initially used with recombinant growth hormone to reduce your need for intravenous nutrients. You will typically take it up to six times per day with meals and snacks.

Side Effects

Although NutreStore is a biocompatible glutamine form, there are side effects. According to the manufacturer's official website, these include an urge to empty your bowels, gas, abdominal pain, hemorrhoids and vomiting. Your doctor will typically recommend a specialized diet based on your condition designed to help decrease these side effects.

References

Article reviewed by Chuck Goldberg Last updated on: Sep 15, 2011

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