Can You Take L-Arginine and OKG Together?

Use extra care with this pair

The short answer

OKG (Ornithine Alpha-Ketoglutarate) is metabolized to produce ornithine, glutamine, arginine, and proline. Combining with additional L-Arginine may lead to excessive urea cycle metabolite accumulation and NO overproduction.

How to arrange timing

Research suggests using moderate doses when combining OKG with L-Arginine. Monitor for signs of excessive vasodilation.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Cynober L. Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate as a potent precursor of arginine and nitric oxide. J Nutr. 2004;134(10 Suppl):2858S-2862S.

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.