Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a serious problem that plagues millions of men worldwide. It is the inability to attain or hold an erection strong enough for sex. Although there are many different approaches to treating ED, the most popular in recent years has been L-arginine supplements. L-arginine, an amino acid, might be responsible for creating nitric oxide in the human body, which relaxes blood vessels and thus delivers more oxygenated blood. In this essay, let’s examine the truth about L-arginine supplements and erectile dysfunction.
What is L-arginine?
L-arginine is a semi-essential amino acid produced in the body. It is also found in foods like red meat, poultry, fish, and milk. L-arginine is essential for the body’s production of nitric oxide, a chemical that opens up blood vessels and enhances blood circulation. Those reasons have prompted some to speculate that L-arginine supplements might help to combat ED because the penis requires better blood supply to produce and sustain an erection.
What is L-arginine’s effect on erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is typically characterized by a reduced blood supply to the penis. That can occur for a range of reasons including age, medical issues, prescription drugs, and lifestyle. L-arginine tablets have been believed to treat ED by boosting nitric oxide levels, thereby relaxing blood vessels and boosting blood flow to the penis. This can lead to tighter, more lasting erections.
L-arginine studies for erectile dysfunction
Some researchers have even studied the efficacy of L-arginine pills in treating erectile dysfunction. A 2011 paper in the Journal of Sexual Medicine reported that men who used L-arginine supplements had more successful erections than men who used a placebo. Another study, published in the British Journal of Urology International in 1999, showed that L-arginine, administered in combination with the drug yohimbine, was used to treat ED in men with organic (physical, not psychological) causes.
These results are encouraging, but they were carried out in a small number of studies and further research is needed to confirm that L-arginine supplements do help with erectile dysfunction.
L-arginine supplements – potential side effects.
Although L-arginine supplements are generally safe for most people, they can also have side effects when used at excessive doses. Here are the most commonly reported side effects:
Stomach Symptoms: Gastrointestinal upset is one of the most common complaints regarding L-arginine supplementation. A number of users mention experiencing bloating, nausea, and diarrhoea while taking the drug, particularly at higher dosages. Individuals prone to intestinal side effects typically feel less unpleasant when the dose is gradually increased.
Intense Low Blood Pressure: L-arginine is an initiator of nitric oxide. It causes blood vessels to open wider – a condition called vasodilation – and may be followed by a drop in blood pressure. While this is beneficial for hypertensive patients, it could be harmful to patients with already low blood pressure and on antihypertensive medications. Such patients should take note of their blood pressure and seek a doctor’s approval before taking supplements.
Adverse Reactions: Although rare, L-arginine is known to cause allergic reactions. These include itching, hives, swelling and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties. *If you are allergic to any amino acids or compounds, exercise caution and consult your doctor before attempting to take supplements.
Drug Interactions: L-arginine interacts with a huge array of medications that can increase the risk of side effects. It makes blood thinners work harder, making you more prone to bleeding. Taking medications for erectile dysfunction at the same time will lower blood pressure to potentially fatal levels. People taking any of the medications listed above should consult with their doctor prior to taking L-arginine to exclude possible side effects.
Levels of L-arginine recommended for erectile dysfunction?
The correct dosage of L-arginine for ED depends on the individual’s health condition and the severity of the ED. But, in most research, a daily intake of 5 grams of L-arginine has been equated with separate daily doses. Make sure you take the recommended dose, and talk to a physician before beginning any new supplement protocol.
Alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction.
Though a prescription L-arginine supplement might work for some ED patients, there are alternative treatments. These include:
1. Drugs: Sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis) and vardenafil (Levitra) are drugs that can help increase the blood supply to the penis, helping to create and maintain an erection.
2. Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy can be used for people who suffer from ED because they have low testosterone.
3. Psychological treatment: Psychological treatment, like counselling or sex therapy, may help resolve deeper emotional or psychological issues that might be causing ED.
4. Change in your lifestyle: You can improve your overall health and avoid developing ED by changing your lifestyle, exercise regularly, eat healthy foods, quit smoking and drinking as little as possible.
5. Vacuum constrictors: Vacuum constrictors are used to squeeze blood through the penis to help form and hold an erection.
6. Penile implants: Penile implants are surgical devices placed in the penis to enable individuals suffering from ED to form and retain an erection.
Conclusion:
Overall, L-arginine could thus potentially become a promising new drug in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men. L-arginine increases the production of nitric oxide that relaxes blood vessels and regulates the flow of blood to the penis. They still need more studies, however, to establish their effectiveness. L-arginine supplements might thus be beneficial for several ED patients. A medical professional should, however, be consulted before beginning any new supplement program of any kind, or other treatment.
