L-Lysine
Also known as: Lysine
An essential amino acid taken orally and studied in immune and cold-sore contexts.
L-Lysine at a glance
| Name | L-Lysine |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Lysine |
| Category | Immune support |
| Type | Amino / injectable |
| Sequence | Amino acid. |
| Typical dose | Commonly ~1-3 g per day as a supplement |
| Frequency | Once daily or divided doses |
| Route | Oral |
| Half-life | Short; cleared over a few hours. |
Overview
L-Lysine is an essential amino acid obtained from diet and used for protein and collagen formation. As a supplement it is most studied in the context of recurrent cold sores, and it also supports calcium handling and general amino-acid balance.
How it’s thought to work
- Serves as a building block for protein and collagen synthesis.
- May counter arginine, which certain viruses use to replicate.
- Involved in calcium absorption and carnitine formation.
Researched uses
- Frequency and severity of recurrent cold sores
- General protein and collagen support
- Amino-acid balance in restricted diets
Commonly cited protocol
| Typical dose | Commonly ~1-3 g per day as a supplement |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Once daily or divided doses |
| Route | Oral |
| Notes | Taken as a capsule or tablet; dietary intake usually covers basic needs. |
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 digestive upset in some people.
- Those with kidney conditions should seek guidance before use.
L-Lysine FAQ
What is L-Lysine?
An essential amino acid taken orally and studied in immune and cold-sore contexts.
How does L-Lysine work?
Serves as a building block for protein and collagen synthesis. May counter arginine, which certain viruses use to replicate. Involved in calcium absorption and carnitine formation.
What is L-Lysine used for?
Frequency and severity of recurrent cold sores; General protein and collagen support; Amino-acid balance in restricted diets.
What is a typical L-Lysine dose?
Commonly ~1-3 g per day as a supplement, Once daily or divided doses, Oral. This is a commonly cited figure for context only, not medical advice.
How do you reconstitute L-Lysine?
Not applicable - this is an oral supplement, so injection unit math does not apply.
What is the half-life of L-Lysine?
Short; cleared over a few hours.