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Ornithine
Allopathy
Over The Counter (OTC)
FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India)
Ornithine is a nutrient belonging to the non-essential amino acid class.
Ornithine is also known as (S)-Ornithine, L-Ornithine and levo-ornithine
Ornithine is vital for several physiological activities, such as the urea cycle for ammonia purification, promoting wound healing, stimulating muscular development, and helping immunological function. A deficiency of Ornithine affects the urea cycle, impacting ammonia detoxification. It may lead to ammonia buildup, neurological problems, and metabolic imbalances.
Ornithine may be found naturally in various meals high in protein that come from both plant and animal sources. Foods like wheat germ, soybeans, and lentils are examples of plant sources, whereas products like chicken, fish (salmon, tuna), eggs, and dairy (milk, yoghurt, and cheese) are examples of animal sources.
Ornithine is widely distributed after being absorbed in the small intestine. It contributes to the urea cycle by converting ammonia to urea, which is excreted in the urine. Ornithine also promotes nitric oxide production and the release of growth hormones.
The common side effects of Ornithine include GI disturbances, nausea, dry mouth, runny nose and sweating.
Ornithine is available in tablets, capsules and oral powders.
Biochemical Action of Ornithine
Ornithine belonging to the non-essential amino acid class acts in several metabolic processes. It works via the urea cycle and nitric oxide synthesis pathway.
Ornithine is an essential component of the urea cycle, a series of metabolic events that transform harmful ammonia into urea for excretion. This cycle occurs predominantly in the liver, detoxifying ammonia produced during amino acid metabolism. While Ornithine does not directly bind to specific receptors, its downstream metabolites interact significantly. Citrulline, produced by Ornithine, can be transformed into arginine, a precursor to nitric oxide. Nitric oxide acts as a signalling molecule, regulating vascular tone, immunological response, and neurotransmission. It stimulates soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) receptors, resulting in higher cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and consequent physiological consequences. Ornithine also helps to create citrulline, a precursor in the creation of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is essential for vasodilation, cardiovascular health, and neurotransmission.
Ornithine is available in tablets, capsules and oral powders.
- Tablets: To be swallowed whole with water/liquid, as applicable.
- Capsules: To be swallowed whole with water/liquid, as applicable.
- Powders, oral: Powders must be mixed thoroughly with the appropriate amount of liquid and stirred well to dissolve the powder, as applicable.
Ornithine can be used as a supplement when the amount of Ornithine taken from the diet is insufficient.
Taking ornithine supplements effectively treats ornithine deficiency caused by specific genetic diseases or other disorders.
Ornithine supplements are commonly used as a supplement in sports nutrition.
Supplemental Ornithine may enhance wound healing and immune effects.
When used as a supplement, Ornithine can improve athletic performance by reducing elevated ammonia levels.
Vitamins and natural supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease(s).
Ornithine can help to support as a supplement for the following health benefits:
- Anti-fatigue Properties: L-ornithine demonstrated anti-fatigue benefits during exercise with 17 individuals in a Nutrition Research study. Ornithine improves energy usage and decreases physical exhaustion by enhancing lipid metabolism, triggering the urea cycle, and lowering body ammonia. Another survey of 52 stressed Japanese individuals found that taking 400 mg of L-ornithine for eight weeks reduced anger and reduced sleep-related exhaustion, as well as stress-related symptoms.
- Wound Healing: In one of the research published in the Journal of Surgical Research, ornithine supplementation improved the healing process for mice's wounds. After 14 days of receiving ornithine-supplemented water and their usual meal, mice were seen to heal wounds more quickly and deposit more collagen. In another research, L-ornithine A-ketoglutarate (OKG) was given to burn victims, which sped up the healing process. In addition, OKG helped patients with severe burns regarding feeding and rehabilitation.
- Liver Function: Excessive ammonia, a nitrogen waste product, can be harmful. By converting ammonia to urea, which is then expelled in urine, Ornithine plays an essential role in the urea cycle, assisting the liver's detoxification. Patients with liver illness, especially those with hepatic encephalopathy, may benefit from ornithine-based substances such as L-ornithine L-aspartate. According to research, people with cirrhosis and chronic, stable hepatic encephalopathy may feel less vulnerable and more in control of their psychological well-being.
- Ammonia Detoxification: Toxic ammonia is transformed into urea by Ornithine, a crucial component of the urea cycle, and then eliminated through the urine. By preventing the development of toxic ammonia in the body, this detoxification process helps maintain a balanced nitrogen level.
- Muscle Growth and Recovery: Ornithine might help develop muscle by stimulating growth hormone secretion. This hormone is necessary for the growth, rehabilitation, and general maintenance of muscles. Exercise performance may be helped by Ornithine's capacity to improve metabolism and energy utilisation.
- Collagen Production: Ornithine's involvement in collagen synthesis benefits the health of the skin, tendons, and blood vessels. All tissues' health and skin elasticity maintenance depends on adequate collagen formation.
- Immune System Support: Ornithine helps make polyamines necessary for the optimal functioning of immune cells. Ornithine could help the immune system's capacity to respond to infections and other challenges by increasing in the production of these substances.
- Stress management: The effects of Ornithine on neurotransmitters, hormone modulation, including cortisol, energy metabolism, growth hormone release, and cognitive function suggest that it may have a role in the management of stress. These processes indicate that Ornithine possesses a role in promoting improved stress adaption, while additional investigation is necessary.
Ornithine supplementation may be administered orally.
Orally: Ornithine supplements are available as tablets, capsules and powders that can be taken orally. The best time to take ornithine supplements is at bedtime or on an empty stomach, such as in the morning or before meals, as it might enhance absorption.
Taking it before exercise may boost its impact on growth hormone release for goals associated with exercise.
The dosage and duration of treatment should be as per the clinical judgment of the treating healthcare professional).
Vitamins and natural supplements should not replace a balanced diet
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease(s).
- Tablets: 1000 mg
- Capsules: 500mg, 1000mg, 1500 mg
- Powder, oral: 750 mg, 1000 mg, 3000 mg
Dosage Adjustment for Adult Patients
Ideally, powdered formulas should be consumed immediately after mixing.
When taken by mouth: Up to 500 mg daily for up to 8 weeks and up to 12 grams daily for 4 weeks.
Ornithine is available in tablets, capsules and oral powders.
Ornithine should be used as a supplement that helps in several physiological processes and appropriate dietary restrictions.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages.
- Stay within your daily calorie needs.
- Limit foods and drinks with high amino acids, caffeine, processed foods, saturated fat, and sodium.
The dietary restriction should be individualized as per patient requirements.
Estimated NEAA(Non-Essential Amino acids) usage, mg/kg BW (Body Weight)
The estimated NEAA usage for Ornithine is not established.
Estimated NEAA(Non-Essential Amino acids) usage, in 70 kg BW
The estimated NEAA usage for Ornithine in 70 kg is not established.
Ornithine supplementation may be contraindicated in the following conditions:
- Hypersensitivity; sensitive to Ornithine.
- Chronic liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Chronic kidney failure
High-dose supplements should be used with caution in the elderly.
Before taking Ornithine, individuals with renal issues should see a physician since the dosage may need to be adjusted to prevent accumulation.
It is recommended to use ornithine supplements cautiously since prolonged usage may result in allergic responses or other adverse effects.
In case of any underlying health conditions, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider.
Alcohol Warning
Breast Feeding Warning
There is no sufficient scientific evidence traceable regarding the use and safety of Ornithine for use in special populations.
Pregnancy Warning
There is no sufficient scientific evidence traceable regarding the use and safety of Ornithine for use in special populations.
Food Warning
Limit the consumption of foods and beverages higher in added sugars, saturated fat, processed foods and caffeine, as these substances could hinder ornithine absorption.
The adverse reactions related to Ornithine can be categorized as-
- Common: GI disturbances like bloating, gas, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting and headaches, especially with high doses.
- Less Common: Fatigue and dizziness.
- Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, itching) and changes in blood pressure and sugar levels.
The clinically relevant drug interactions of Ornithine are briefly summarized here:
- Antihypertensive Drugs: Ornithine may increase the effects of antihypertensive drugs in reducing blood pressure, perhaps leading to severe hypotension.
- Other supplemental amino acids: Combining Ornithine with other amino acids may disturb the normal functioning of the metabolism and disrupt nutrient absorption.
- Immunosuppressants: Ornithine's change of immune function may interact with medications that suppress the immune system, altering their intended effects.
- Chemotherapy Drugs: Ornithine's amino acid characteristics may interact with chemotherapy drugs, affecting the efficacy or adverse effects of the treatment.
The common side of Ornithine includes the following:
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Bloating, gas
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Runny nose
- Increased sweating.
Ornithine should be prudent in the following group of special populations.
- Pregnancy:
There is no sufficient scientific evidence traceable regarding the use and safety of Ornithine for use in special populations. Avoid ornithine supplements unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional while pregnant.
- Paediatrics:
There is no sufficient scientific evidence traceable regarding the use and safety of Ornithine for use in special populations.
Dosage Adjustment for Paediatric Patients
There are no specific dosage adjustments provided.
- Geriatrics:
The elderly population may be drawn to the possible role of Ornithine in immune support and muscle maintenance. The use of it in geriatrics, however, requires caution. The appropriate amount should be determined according to the patient's health, any potential interactions, and the desired outcomes.
- Lactating mothers:
There is no sufficient scientific evidence traceable regarding the use and safety of Ornithine for use in special populations. Avoid ornithine supplements unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional while lactating.
Dosage Adjustment in Kidney Impairment
There are no specific dosage adjustments provided.
Dosage Adjustment in Hepatic Impairment
There are no specific dosage adjustments provided.
The physician should be vigilant about the knowledge pertaining to identifying and treating overdosage of Ornithine. Overconsumption of Ornithine may lead to symptoms that might include gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting.
There is no specific antidote or treatment for excessive intake of supplemental Ornithine.
Ornithine supplements should be terminated immediately when an overdose is suspected or experience any unusual symptoms after Ornithine supplement use or dietary intake. Fluid intake should be increased along with electrolyte monitoring. Supportive therapy should also be given, addressing any symptoms that persist or worsen. Physical treatment might be added if necessary.
Biochemistry Profile of Ornithine
Ornithine is considered non-essential because the body is capable of producing it. It has a variety of roles in many biochemical processes and helps maintain overall health and function. It is an essential part of the urea cycle, a series of chemical processes that converts ammonia into urea for excretion, and so detoxifies it. The amino acid arginine is converted into the substance ornithine, which helps in the body's elimination of excess nitrogen.
Furthermore, to its involvement in the urea cycle, Ornithine is a precursor for the production of polyamines, which are organic substances necessary for immunological response, wound healing, and cell proliferation. For cells to grow and reproduce, DNA must be stabilised, and genes have to be translated.
Metabolic interactions with other amino acids influence the activities of Ornithine. It is involved in metabolic processes that support energy production and the synthesis of other molecules.
Kinetic profile:
- Absorption: Ornithine is absorbed mainly in the small intestine after oral administration via active transport pathways.
- Distribution: Ornithine is evenly distributed throughout the body as it is involved in numerous metabolic activities.
- Metabolism: Ornithine is an essential component of the urea cycle, which converts harmful ammonia into urea. This cycle occurs largely in the liver.
- Elimination: Ornithine is not eliminated in large amounts as Ornithine but rather participates in metabolic events that result in the removal of waste products. The urea produced in the urea cycle, which involves Ornithine, gets eliminated in urine.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31187867/
- https://www.fssai.gov.in/upload/advisories/2021/07/60f1798019f94Direction_RDA_16_07_2021.pdf
National Institute of Nutrition. 2011. Dietary guidelines for Indians; 2nd Edition. Hyderabad. India
Tessari P. 2019. Nonessential amino acid usage for protein replenishment in humans: a method of estimation; American Society for Nutrition. Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy