Overview
Essential amino acid for collagen and HSV prevention.
- Dietary protein from animal sources (meat, fish, eggs, dairy) and plant sources (soy, legumes, grains)
- Free-form amino acid powders and capsules
- Targeted pre-workout, recovery, or sleep formulations
- Free-form crystalline powder
- Capsules or tablets
- Pre-mixed recovery or hydration beverages
- Time-release formulations
Mechanism of action
Antagonizes arginine for HSV replication.
- · Antagonizes arginine for HSV replication
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
L-Lysine modulates innate and adaptive immune responses, including cytokine signaling and barrier function.
L-Lysine supports collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense, or barrier function in skin and integumentary tissues.
Evidence-based benefits
Reduces HSV recurrence
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · GI upset
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Autoimmune disease (theoretical immune activation)
- ·Immunosuppressants
Supplement interactions
- Vitamin D3 + K2Foundational immune modulation.
- ZincRequired cofactor for innate and adaptive immune function.
- Collagen peptidesProvides amino acid substrate for connective tissue synthesis.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Amazon code supplementsch-20 is auto-applied at checkout. We don't endorse specific brands; verify third-party testing (USP, NSF, Informed Sport) before purchase.
Third-party testedIndependently verified L-Lysine — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.L-Lysine third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured L-Lysine capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.L-Lysine capsules
PowderBulk unflavored L-Lysine powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.L-Lysine powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased L-Lysine products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.L-Lysine best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Lysine for HSV
Griffith RS, et al.
41 HSV patients
Reduced recurrence rate and severity.
PubMed: L-Lysine — Reduces HSV recurrence
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PubMed: L-Lysine — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: L-Lysine — meta-analysis
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PubMed: L-Lysine — dose response
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Google Scholar: L-Lysine — clinical evidence
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Cross-database citation index for L-Lysine as it relates to "clinical evidence".
Includes preprints, theses, and journal articles. Useful for tracking citation counts and follow-on work.