Am Pregnant. Why Is L-arginine Prescribed For Daily Use?

Posted on Wed, 2 May 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 2 May 2012 Answered on

Sun, 8 Jul 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : dear doctor , i am 4 weeks pregnant. why is 2 satchet of L- Arginine prescribed to me to be taken daily?

Answered by Dr. Minoo Bhagia (2 hours later)

Hello,

Thanks for writing to us.

These are amino acids. Arginine is given for the proper growth of the fetus to prevent intrauterine growth retardation.

It can be taken bi-weekly.

If you want to know anything else you are welcome.

Best wishes

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Minoo Bhagia (3 hours later)

dear doctor, I hav been prescribed to take 2 satchets of L-Arginine daily in my 4th week of pregnancy. Will it be safe to take the prescribed dose? Should I moniter for any side effect?

Answered by Dr. Minoo Bhagia (35 minutes later)

Hello,

In my personal opinion any drug in overdose should not be given first trimester of pregnancy as there are no evidences and proofs regarding its side effects.

I give this drug in second and third trimester in cases where blood pressure is high. I give one XXXXXXX twice weekly. As it dilates the blood vessels so it can lower the blood pressure.

Never mind if you have taken two sachets, they are not going to do any harm except abdominal belching in some cases.

It is better to take natural supplements for L arginine as well as DHA in first trimester such as fish, sardines and salmon, egg white, pulses etc.

Folic acid or its active form L methylfolate is must in first trimester.

Best wishes for the new born.

Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E