Amino Acid
Arginine AKG
Also known as: L-arginine-alpha-ketoglutarate, L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate, AAKG, Arginine-AKG
Arginine AKG is a salt form combining L-arginine with alpha-ketoglutarate, designed to enhance nitric oxide production and support muscle protein synthesis. Evidence for performance and cardiovascular benefits remains preliminary, with mixed results in clinical studies.
Primary uses
- Nitric oxide production
- Blood flow enhancement
- Muscle protein synthesis
- Exercise performance
- Vascular function
How it works
- Substrate for nitric oxide synthase (NOS), supporting endothelial nitric oxide production
- Alpha-ketoglutarate provides TCA cycle intermediary to support energy metabolism
- Vasodilation through NO-mediated pathways
Dosage
- Typical range
- 3-6 grams daily
- Timing
- Pre-workout (30-60 minutes prior) for acute effects, or daily for chronic use
- With food
- Can be taken with or without food; better tolerated with food for sensitive individuals
- Duration
- Acute studies typically 4-12 weeks; chronic nitric oxide benefits may require consistent supplementation
- Special populations
- Avoid or use cautiously in individuals with history of herpes simplex (arginine may promote viral replication); pregnant/nursing should consult healthcare provider
Forms
- Powder· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
- Tablet· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Gastrointestinal distress (nausea, diarrhea, bloating)
- Headache
- Hypotension (in sensitive individuals)
- Nausea at higher doses
Contraindications
- Active herpes simplex infection (may exacerbate symptoms)
- Severe hypotension
- Recent myocardial infarction (use with medical supervision)
- Concurrent use of erectile dysfunction medications (additive vasodilation risk)
Products containing Arginine AKG
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Arginine AKG on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
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Evidence notes
L-arginine has moderate evidence for vascular function, but the AKG salt form lacks robust RCT data demonstrating superiority over standard L-arginine. Performance benefits in athletes remain inconsistent across studies.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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Open the checkerMedical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.