Citrulline Safety: What You Need to Know

Some individuals choose to use citrulline or other dietary supplements in an effort to achieve better health or enhance performance, but it is important to discuss the safety issues of such supplements with a health care professional before use.

Identification

• Citrulline, a nonstandard amino acid found in protein, occurs naturally in the human body as well as in some foods. Its most common use is as a supplement to improve athletic performance, although there is no proof of its effectiveness in this regard.

Safety

• When used properly, citrulline is "possibly" safe, according to the WebMd website. However, as of November 2010, no information is available about its interaction with other medications or its safety when taken by pregnant women or nursing mothers.

Additional Warnings

• The Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center website also states citrulline is considered safe, since it is an amino acid produced in the human body. However, no safe dose has been established for children or people suffering from liver or kidney ailments. Before taking this supplement, an individual should discuss his intentions with a health care professional to avoid potential complications.