Evidence supporting the use of: Arginine
For the health condition: Congestive Heart Failure

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Arginine (L-arginine) is an amino acid that serves as a precursor to nitric oxide, a molecule involved in vasodilation and endothelial function. The rationale for its use in congestive heart failure (CHF) stems from evidence that nitric oxide production is impaired in heart failure, and supplementation might improve vascular tone and cardiac function. Several small clinical studies and pilot trials have explored L-arginine supplementation in CHF patients, with mixed results. Some studies reported improvements in exercise capacity and hemodynamic parameters, attributing these effects to enhanced nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation. However, other trials have not demonstrated significant benefits, and concerns have been raised about the safety and efficacy of chronic arginine supplementation in this population. A notable randomized controlled trial (the VINTAGE MI study, though in post-MI patients) even suggested possible harm. Major cardiology guidelines do not recommend arginine supplementation in CHF due to insufficient high-quality evidence. In summary, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and limited supportive data from early-phase studies, the overall quality and consistency of evidence are low. Arginine is not widely used or recommended as a standard therapy for CHF.

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Products containing Arginine

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