Overview

L-ornithine-L-aspartate is a chemical that is broken down by the body to increase levels of two amino acids: ornithine and aspartic acid.

Ornithine and aspartic acid help to reduce levels of a toxic chemical called ammonia in the blood.

People use L-ornithine-L-aspartate for reduced brain function due to advanced liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy). It is also used for athletic performance, cirrhosis, and other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse L-ornithine-L-aspartate with ornithine or aspartic acid. These are not the same.

How does it work ?

L-ornithine-L-aspartate increases the levels of ornithine and aspartic acid in the body. These amino acids help to reduce levels of a toxic chemical called ammonia in the blood.

L-ornithine-L-aspartate increases the levels of ornithine and aspartic acid in the body. These amino acids help to reduce levels of a toxic chemical called ammonia in the blood.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Effective for

  • Reduced brain function in people with advanced liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy). Taking L-ornithine-L-aspartate by mouth or by IV might reduce symptoms of this condition in people with a long-term liver disease called cirrhosis. But it does not seem to help in those with short-term liver failure. IV products can only be given by a healthcare provider.
There is interest in using L-ornithine-L-aspartate for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: L-ornithine-L-aspartate is possibly safe when used in doses of up to 18 grams daily for up to 6 months. It's generally well-tolerated.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: L-ornithine-L-aspartate is possibly safe when used in doses of up to 18 grams daily for up to 6 months. It's generally well-tolerated.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if L-ornithine-L-aspartate is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for L-ORNITHINE-L-ASPARTATE overview.

Dosing

L-ornithine-L-aspartate has most often been used by adults in doses of 6-18 grams by mouth daily for up to 6 months. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.