Know the basics
What is lysine used for?
Lysine has been studied for the prevention and treatment of herpes infections and cold sores. It also increases the intestinal absorption of calcium and eliminates its excretion by the kidney, suggesting that it might be helpful in osteoporosis. Lysine has been investigated for its effects on increasing muscle mass, lowering glucose, and improving anxiety. Case reports suggest lysine may ameliorate angina. Lysine acetylsalicylate has been used to treat pain and to detoxify the body after heroin use. Lysine clonixinate has been used to treat migraine headaches and other painful conditions. However, limited clinical trials exist for these conditions.
How should I take lysine?
Take this product by mouth as directed. Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens or if you develop new symptoms. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
How do I store lysine?
Lysine is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store Lysine in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of Lysine that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.
You should not flush Lysine down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Know the precautions & warnings
What should I know before using lysine?
Before taking Lysine, tell your doctor if you:
- Have too much lysine in the blood or urine;
- Have liver and kidney impairment;
- Are allergic to lysine;
Is it safe to take lysine during pregnancy or breast-feeding?
There are no adequate studies in women for determining risk when using Lysine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking Lysine. Lysine is pregnancy risk category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:
- A=No risk,
- B=No risk in some studies,
- C=There may be some risk,
- D=Positive evidence of risk,
- X=Contraindicated,
- N=Unknown
Know the side effects
What are the side effects of lysine?
Lysine is possibly safe for most people when taken by mouth at recommended doses for up to one year, or when applied to the skin short-term. It can cause side effects such as stomach pain and diarrhea.
Side effects include: Rarely associated with interstitial nephritis.
Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side-effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Know the interactions
What drugs may interact with lysine?
Lysine may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.
Use of calcium supplements with lysine may be associated with increased absorption and reduced elimination of calcium. Aminoglycoside toxicity may be enhanced in patients taking lysine supplementation.
Does food or alcohol interact with lysine?
Lysine may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using Lysine.
What health conditions may interact with lysine?
Lysine may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.
The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially: CV diseases, Elevated cholesterol levels.
Understand the dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using Lysine.
What is the dose of Lysine for an adult?
Treatment and prophylaxis of herpes simplex
- To treat symptoms: 3,000-9,000 mg/day, oral, in divided doses.
- To prevent recurrences: 500-1,500 mg/day.
Dietary supplement
- Oral: 500-1,000 mg/day.
What is the dose of Lysine for a child?
The dosage has not been established in pediatric patients. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How is Lysine available?
Lysine is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
- Capsule, Oral: 500 mg, 1000 mg.
What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services (115) or go to your nearest emergency room.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of Lysine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
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