Skip to main content

Amino Acid

L-Ornithine α-Ketoglutarate

Also known as: OKG, Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate, Ornithine AKG, L-Ornithine AKG

C
Evidence

L-Ornithine α-Ketoglutarate is a salt combining the amino acid L-ornithine with α-ketoglutarate, theoretically supporting protein synthesis and muscle recovery. Limited clinical evidence exists for its efficacy in healthy populations, with most data from small or older studies.

Primary uses

  • Muscle protein synthesis
  • Post-exercise recovery
  • Wound healing support
  • Nitrogen metabolism

How it works

  • Provides ornithine precursor for polyamine synthesis and collagen formation
  • Supplies α-ketoglutarate to support amino acid metabolism and TCA cycle function
  • May enhance arginine synthesis through the urea cycle

Dosage

Typical range
5–10 g daily
Timing
Post-workout or with meals
With food
May be taken with or without food; taking with carbohydrate or protein may enhance amino acid utilization
Duration
Typically taken for 4–8 weeks during training phases; longer-term safety data is limited
Special populations
Safety in pregnant/nursing women, children, and those with urea cycle disorders not well established

Forms

  • Powder· 70/100
  • Capsule· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

  • Nausea or mild gastrointestinal upset
  • Generally well tolerated at recommended doses

Contraindications

  • Urea cycle disorders or arginine/ornithine metabolism conditions
  • Use with caution in individuals with liver dysfunction

Evidence notes

Some clinical studies show modest benefits for wound healing and post-surgery recovery in stressed populations, but evidence in healthy athletes is limited and inconsistent. Most studies are small, older, or conducted in surgical/hospitalized patients rather than healthy supplement users.

Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.

Related in Amino Acid

Check a full stack

Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.

Open the checker

Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.