Lysine is an essential amino acid that the body is unable to make. It is obtained through protein-rich food sources, including dairy products, meat and eggs.
The body needs to maintain adequate levels of lysine for collagen formation, which is needed for healthy bones and connective tissues. Lysine is also required for the production of carnitine, which converts fatty acids to energy.
Many people are able to maintain healthy levels of lysine through their diet. However, vegans with a diet that does not include beans are at risk of having inadequate amounts of lysine in their bodies. This can lead to a deficiency, which produces symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and dizziness.
Those who need additional lysine can obtain it from supplements that contain this amino acid. Knowing where to buy L-lysine supplements and what forms they are available in can help consumers make informed choices.



- Promotes health skin & bones
- Boosts immunity & antibody production
- Supports tissue repair & hormone balance
Common Reasons to Buy L-Lysine Pills
L-lysine pills and supplements are used for correcting deficiencies that occur from inadequate levels of this amino acid in the body. This can help reduce symptoms of a lysine deficiency.
Lysine supplements are also commonly used for preventing cold sores or reducing the recurrence of cold sores. Other uses include canker sore prevention, improved calcium absorption and bone health, and improved athletic performance.
According to the National Medicines Comprehensive Database, studies have shown that lysine supplements are possibly effective at reducing cold sore severity and recurrence. [1]
They have also been studied for their effectiveness at preventing canker sores. Preliminary research indicates that daily doses of 500 mg of lysine might be effective for canker sore prevention, according to National Medicines Comprehensive Database. [2]
Lysine has also been researched for its effects on stress and mood in populations that consume cereal-based diets. This amino acid was found to reduce stress in females and reduce anxiety in males.
Lysine is sometimes used as an anti-glycation agent for purported anti-aging benefits. Some studies suggest that lysine may help lower blood sugar levels in diabetics, but other clinical evidence suggests this supplement does not affect fasting blood sugar levels.
Lysine has been suggested as a nutrient that can improve bone health by enhancing the absorption of calcium. However, more research is needed to evaluate its potential therapeutic benefits for osteoporosis. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that there have not been any studies focusing on lysine’s effectiveness at preventing osteoporosis. [3]
Types of Lysine to Buy Online
Those who want to buy lysine online will find it available in a variety of forms. Lysine supplements that can be taken orally include capsules, pills and tablets, as well as powder and liquids that can be mixed into beverages. L-lysine ointments are also available for topical use.
There are several brands that sell lysine supplements. Some of these are Source Naturals, Pure Encapsulations, NOW Foods, Thorne Research, Quantum Health and Nature’s Bounty.
Consumers can purchase L-lysine tablets, powders and other supplements at Amazon, GNC.com and other online retailers that have a reliable reputation. These products can also be found in drugstores and other local stores that carry dietary supplements.
Some oral L-lysine supplements for sale contain other ingredients that help promote healing and improve immune function, such as vitamin C, Echinacea and licorice. Some topical lysine supplements contain ingredients that help ease skin irritation, such as cocoa butter and vitamins A, D and E.
A large percentage of consumers who bought lysine supplements online reported that these products effectively prevented cold sores and canker sores and promoted faster healing. A small percentage of consumers who purchased lysine supplements stated that these products did not help heal or prevent cold sores and canker sores.
How to Take L-Lysine Supplements
No recommended dosages of lysine are available. Dosages of lysine supplements for each individual vary based on age, medical conditions and other factors. Dosages also depend on what these supplements are being used for.
L-lysine supplements are typically found in dosages of 500 MG or 1,000 MG. Consumers should talk to their doctor to determine a safe dosage of lysine to buy. A low dose of 500 MG is typically safe to take for mild cold sore outbreaks.
Higher dosages have been used for more severe or recurring outbreaks. According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, participants under medical supervision in clinical trials have taken between 1,000 and 3,000 MG of lysine daily in one dose or three divided doses. [4]
Side Effects of L-Lysine Supplements
Small to medium doses of lysine supplements are typically considered safe to take for up to one year, but larger doses should be avoided. Larger dosages might increase the risk of gallstone formation.
Other potential side effects of higher doses include abdominal cramping and higher cholesterol levels, according to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. [5]
Those who take arginine supplements should use lysine supplements with caution and under a doctor’s care. Arginine and lysine interfere with each other’s absorption, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. [6]
Those who buy lysine supplements should use calcium supplements with caution and talk to their doctor about safe calcium levels. Lysine helps the body absorb calcium, which can increase the risk of hypercalcemia, a condition that occurs from too much calcium in the blood.
High amounts of lysine might raise the risk of kidney failure and other types of renal dysfunction, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. [7] Those who have kidney problems should talk to their doctor before purchasing any lysine supplements.
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Center. Lysine. 2015.
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Center. Lysine. 2015.
- University of Maryland Medical Center. Lysine. 2015.
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Center. Lysine. 2015.
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Center. Lysine. 2015.
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. L-Lysine. 2016.
- University of Maryland Medical Center. Lysine. 2015.
Article last updated on: July 24th, 2018 by Nootriment