Side Effects of Nitric Oxide Supplements

Nitric oxide supplements are increasing in popularity.  There are a variety of products on the market and sorting through them and selecting the best one for your needs can be confusing. Many companies trying to cash in on trends do not really care about the quality of their product, therefore their products may be ineffective. There are some concerns about the quality of nitric oxide health supplements on the market and the effectiveness.  Let’s take a closer look at nitric oxide supplements and some of the benefits and drawbacks associated with using these types of products. Nitric oxide health products are composed of L-arginine (examples include: L-arg, arginine hydrochloride). This is a component in your body that then changes into nitric oxide after consumption. It is primarily included in health products to trigger blood vessel relaxation (also known as vasodilation) — this may be helpful to people at risk of heart problems or disease. However, there are known side effects that have been found to be associated with nitric oxide consumption, therefore you must only use it under a physician’s care.  Read on to learn more about some of these potential side effects.

Adjustments in Body Electrolytes

Nitric oxide supplements have been known to adjust the chemical environment of your body. This often results in problems such as high chloride, high potassium, low phosphate, low sodium, raised blood urea nitrogen and raised creatinine levels. It is important to note that you should not use nitric oxide supplements if you health problems such as liver or kidney disease. These organs help to regulate electrolytes and may be extra receptive to side effects of nitric oxide supplement use.

Stomach Problems

Stomach discomfort is a known side effect of nitric oxide supplements. Symptoms include vomiting or nausea, cramping or an growth in the amount of stool. Try to take this supplement with food to avoid stomach discomfort. Speak to your doctor immediately if you are experiencing stomach issues with nitric oxide use.

Blood Pressure Fluctuations

Because nitric oxide is known to affect blood vessels, a decrease in blood pressure is a possible side effect. Symptoms connected to with low blood pressure include dizziness, headaches, lightheadedness, nausea, throwing up and vertigo. These symptoms may get worse when standing from a sitting position or when going to the bathroom. Immediately stop use and speak to your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms.

Arginine Shot

Sometimes doctors give arginine injections to increase nitric oxide levels in the body. Side effects of this injection include flushing, low back pain, numbness, headache, restless legs, vein irritation and death of the tissue around the injection location. Yan ice pack may be applied as needed for pain. Discuss with your health care provided if these symptoms persist.