Ornithinearginine

Ornithinearginine is a dipeptide composed of the amino acids ornithine and arginine linked by a peptide bond. As a distinct dipeptide, it is not one of the standard proteinogenic amino acids and is typically studied or used in synthetic form for research or nutritional purposes. It is different from ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG), another compound that combines ornithine with a keto acid.

In some contexts, ornithinearginine is prepared as a dietary supplement or investigated in research on nitrogen metabolism and protein synthesis. The rationale for combining ornithine with arginine lies in the roles of these amino acids: ornithine participates in the urea cycle, while arginine serves as a precursor for nitric oxide and other metabolic pathways. However, evidence supporting clear clinical or performance benefits from ornithinearginine is limited. Animal studies and small human trials have produced mixed results, and robust, well-controlled data are lacking.

Safety and regulatory status vary by country. Ornithinearginine is not an approved pharmaceutical and is typically sold as a dietary supplement where allowed. Reported adverse effects are generally mild but can include gastrointestinal symptoms. People with kidney or liver disease, those taking medications affecting nitrogen metabolism or blood pressure, or individuals who are pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare provider before considering use. As with many specialized dipeptides, comprehensive safety and efficacy data are lacking, and the compound remains a niche topic outside mainstream medical practice.