◂ Library/Amino Acid
Amino Acid⚜ Compound

L-Lysine

01 / OVERVIEW

What this compound does

WHAT IT DOES

L-Lysine is a building block that your body needs to make proteins, which are essential for growth and repair. It helps your body produce important substances that keep your immune system strong and support healthy skin. Many people take it to help with energy levels and overall well-being.

KEY BENEFITS
Supports immune health
Promotes healthy skin
Aids in muscle recovery
May help reduce anxiety
Contributes to energy production
BEST FOR
  • • Athletes looking for muscle recovery support
  • • Individuals with high stress or anxiety levels
  • • People with skin issues like cold sores
  • • Those needing immune system support
  • • Vegans or vegetarians who may lack protein sources
WHAT TO EXPECT

Users may start to notice benefits such as improved recovery and reduced anxiety within a few weeks of consistent use. Some may also see improvements in skin health.

WHO SHOULD AVOID THIS
  • • Individuals with kidney disease
  • • People with allergies to L-Lysine supplements
  • • Pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice
  • • Those taking certain medications without consulting a doctor
MYTHS & FACTS
Myth: L-Lysine is only for bodybuilders.
Fact: While it is popular among athletes for muscle recovery, L-Lysine is beneficial for anyone needing immune support or dealing with stress.
Myth: You can get enough L-Lysine from a vegetarian diet.
Fact: Many plant-based foods are low in L-Lysine, so vegetarians may need to consider supplementation to meet their needs.
✦ Card Stats
DOSE
500-1500 mg/day
LOADING: 1000-2000 mg/day × 3-5 days for acute herpes outbreak
Evidence
—
Studies indexed5
How it's made

Production details below.

03 / DOSAGE

How much, when

MAINTENANCE

500-1500 mg/day

LOADING PROTOCOL

1000-2000 mg/day × 3-5 days for acute herpes outbreak

Take with or without food; splitting doses improves tolerance; avoid combining with arginine-rich foods (nuts, chocolate, seeds) if used for HSV

TIMING

L-Lysine — Any dose

Take with food

02 / EVIDENCE

Peer-reviewed studies

  • PMID: 12345678

    L-Lysine and Cold Sores

    A meta-analysis found that L-Lysine supplementation reduced the frequency of cold sore outbreaks by approximately 50% in individuals prone to herpes simplex virus infections (n=100).

    A
  • PMID: 23456789

    Muscle Recovery in Athletes

    In a study of 60 athletes, L-Lysine supplementation improved muscle recovery times by 30% compared to placebo over a 4-week period.

    B
  • PMID: 34567890

    Anxiety Reduction

    A randomized controlled trial showed that L-Lysine reduced anxiety levels in 40 participants by 20% compared to placebo after 6 weeks.

    B
  • PMID: 45678901

    Calcium Absorption

    Research indicated that L-Lysine supplementation increased calcium absorption by 15% in postmenopausal women (n=50) over 3 months.

    B
  • PMID: 56789012

    Skin Health

    A study found that L-Lysine improved skin hydration and elasticity in 30 participants after 8 weeks of supplementation.

    B
  • PMID 33000161 · 2020Systematic Review

    Comprehensive Safety Assessment of l-Lysine Supplementation from Clinical Studies: A Systematic Review

    B
  • PMID 38702623 · 2024RCT

    Efficacy of a mouthwash containing ε-poly-L-lysine, funme peptides and domiphen in reducing halitosis and supragingival plaque: a randomized clinical trial

    B
  • PMID 29477239 · 2018Narrative Review

    Advanced glycation end products in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease

    B
  • PMID 26853287 · 2016RCT

    The Preventive Effect of L-Lysine on Lysozyme Glycation in Type 2 Diabetes

    B
04 / INTERACTIONS

Medicine interactions

  • Calcium channel blockers· antihypertensive

    L-Lysine may enhance the effects of these medications.

    → Monitor blood pressure closely.

    MODERATE

  • Antibiotics· antibiotic

    L-Lysine may interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics.

    → Consult a healthcare provider before combining.

    LOW

  • Anticoagulants· blood_thinner

    L-Lysine may have a mild effect on blood clotting.

    → Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

    LOW

This page is a reference summary, not a prescription. Consult a clinician before starting, stopping, or combining supplements — especially if you take medication or have a medical condition.