L-arginine is an amino acid with several therapeutic indications due to its role in nitric oxide production, which is important in vasodilation and improving blood flow¹. Below are some of the well-recognized uses for L-arginine:

1. Cardiovascular Health:

   • Hypertension: L-arginine is used to manage high blood pressure by improving endothelial function and thus reducing blood pressure²³.
   • Angina and Peripheral Arterial Disease: It can help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms associated with these conditions⁴⁵.
   • Pulmonary Hypertension: Can be beneficial in managing blood pressure in the lungs and heart⁶.

2. Erectile Dysfunction: L-arginine supplementation can improve sexual function when taken alone or in combination with medications like sildenafil⁴.

3. Pregnancy-Related Conditions:

   • Pre-eclampsia: L-arginine may lower blood pressure in pregnant individuals experiencing or at high risk for pre-eclampsia⁴.
   • High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy: It might reduce the need for anti-hypertensive medications⁴.

4. Metabolic Disorders:

   • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: L-arginine may help in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity⁷.

5. Infant Health:

   • Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Premature Infants: L-arginine can reduce the risk of this serious intestinal disease⁴.

It's important to note that while L-arginine has these potential uses, the effectiveness can vary, and it should ideally be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional⁸.

Footnotes

1. Mayo Clinic ↩

2. PMC ↩

3. MedlinePlus ↩

4. Mayo Clinic ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵

5. PMC ↩

6. PMC ↩

7. PubMed ↩

8. PMC ↩