LYSINE Overview Information
Lysine is an amino acid (building block of protein). People use it to make medicine.
Lysine is used for preventing and treating cold sores (caused by the virus called herpes simplex labialis). It is taken by mouth or applied directly to the skin for this use.
Lysine is also taken by mouth to improve athletic performance.
How does it work?
Lysine seems to prevent the herpes virus from growing.
LYSINE Uses & Effectiveness 
Possibly Effective for:
- Reducing recurrences, severity, and healing time of cold sores (herpes simplex labialis). Lysine seems to be effective when taken by mouth and also when applied as a cream to the skin.
Insufficient Evidence for:
- Improving athletic performance.
LYSINE Side Effects & Safety
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.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of lysine during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.Kidney disease: There is one report of kidney disease linked with taking lysine supplements. If you have a kidney disease, check with your healthcare provider before taking lysine.
LYSINE Interactions
Moderate Interaction Be cautious with this combination
- Calcium supplements interacts with LYSINE
Lysine can increase how much calcium the body absorbs. Taking calcium along with lysine can increase the amount of calcium in the body. Avoid taking large amounts of calcium and lysine at the same time.
LYSINE Dosing
The following doses have been studied in scientific research:
BY MOUTH:
- For cold sores (herpes simplex labialis): 1000 mg daily for 12 months and 1000 mg three times daily for 6 months.
- For treating cold sores (herpes simplex labialis): a specific combination of lysine plus zinc oxide and 14 other ingredients (Super Lysine Plus +) applied every 2 hours for 11 days has been used.
