L-Citrulline
Also known as: Citrulline · Citrulline Malate
An amino acid taken orally and studied for nitric oxide and exercise endurance.
L-Citrulline at a glance
| Name | L-Citrulline |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Citrulline, Citrulline Malate |
| Category | Energy & metabolism |
| Type | Amino / injectable |
| Sequence | Amino acid. |
| Typical dose | Commonly ~6-8 g of citrulline malate before exercise |
| Frequency | Once daily, often pre-workout |
| Route | Oral |
| Half-life | Short; cleared over a few hours. |
Overview
L-Citrulline is a non-protein amino acid that the body converts to arginine, raising nitric-oxide availability. It is often studied for exercise endurance and blood flow, and is thought to raise arginine levels more effectively than oral arginine itself.
How it’s thought to work
- Converted to arginine in the kidneys, raising arginine levels.
- Indirectly supports nitric-oxide production and vessel dilation.
- May aid clearance of ammonia via the urea cycle.
Researched uses
- Exercise endurance and reduced fatigue
- Blood-flow and circulation support
- Nitric-oxide precursor supplementation
Commonly cited protocol
| Typical dose | Commonly ~6-8 g of citrulline malate before exercise |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Once daily, often pre-workout |
| Route | Oral |
| Notes | Sold as pure citrulline or as citrulline malate; taken as powder or capsule. |
Reconstitution
Not applicable - this is an oral supplement, so injection unit math does not apply.
Cautions
- A dietary supplement, not a medical treatment.
- High doses may cause mild digestive upset in some people.
- Those on blood-pressure medication should seek guidance before use.
L-Citrulline FAQ
What is L-Citrulline?
An amino acid taken orally and studied for nitric oxide and exercise endurance.
How does L-Citrulline work?
Converted to arginine in the kidneys, raising arginine levels. Indirectly supports nitric-oxide production and vessel dilation. May aid clearance of ammonia via the urea cycle.
What is L-Citrulline used for?
Exercise endurance and reduced fatigue; Blood-flow and circulation support; Nitric-oxide precursor supplementation.
What is a typical L-Citrulline dose?
Commonly ~6-8 g of citrulline malate before exercise, Once daily, often pre-workout, Oral. This is a commonly cited figure for context only, not medical advice.
How do you reconstitute L-Citrulline?
Not applicable - this is an oral supplement, so injection unit math does not apply.
What is the half-life of L-Citrulline?
Short; cleared over a few hours.