L-Ornithine L-aspartate lowers blood ammonia concentration and to eliminate symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy associated with liver cirrhosis.
L-Ornithine L-aspartate also improves mitochondrial functions.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate has the molecular formula C9H19N3O6, and it is a white crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water, which makes it suitable for various pharmaceutical formulations.
CAS Number: 3230-94-2
Molecular Formula: C5H12N2O2.C4H7NO4
Molecular Weight: 265.26
EINECS Number: 221-772-7
Synonyms: 3230-94-2, L-Ornithine-L-aspartate, L-Ornithine L-aspartate, Ornithine aspartate, Hepamerz, Orparan, Ormeta, Ornithine L-form aspartate, RUIGAN, JA08T3B97O, DTXSID30883964, DTXCID301023440, 221-772-7, Hepa-Merz, L-Ornithine L-aspartate salt, (S)-2,5-Diaminopentanoic acid compound with (S)-2-aminosuccinic acid (1:1), MFCD00058084, Ornithine Aseparate, C9H19N3O6, (2S)-2-aminobutanedioic acid;(2S)-2,5-diaminopentanoic acid, (S)-2,5-Diaminopentanoic acid (S)-2-aminosuccinic acid salt, Ornithine Aspartate (L-Ornithine L-Aspartate), Hepa-Merz (TN), LOLA, SCHEMBL361185, orb1307040, IXUZXIMQZIMPSQ-ZBRNBAAYSA-N, BCP13530, HY-A0282, ORNITHINE ASPARTATE [WHO-DD], L-Ornithine L-aspartate salt, powder, AKOS015998595, L-ORNITHINE-L-ASPARTATE (SALT), ORNITHINE L-FORM ASPARTATE [MI], AS-12577, L-ORNITHINE, L-ASPARTATE (1:1), SY066991, CS-0019764, NS00081982, O0440, ORNITHINE, L-, L-ASPARTATE (1:1), D08303, D70545, Q27281401, (S)-2,5-Diaminopentanoicacidcompoundwith(S)-2-aminosuccinicacid(1:1), [(4S)-4-amino-4-carboxy-butyl]ammonium;(2S)-2-amino-4-hydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate, Ornithne Aspartate;L-Orn-L-Asp;(2S)-2-amino-4-hydroxy-4-keto-butyrate;(2S)-2-amino-4-hydroxy-4-oxobutanoate;(2S)-2-azanyl-4-hydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate;[(4S)-4-amino-5-hydroxy-5-keto-pentyl]ammonium;[(4S)-4-amino-5-hydroxy-5-oxopentyl]azanium;[(4S)-4-azanyl-5-hydroxy-5-oxo-pentyl]azanium
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is a chemical that is broken down by the body to increase levels of two amino acids: ornithine and aspartic acid.
Ornithine and L-Ornithine L-Aspartate help to reduce levels of a toxic chemical called ammonia in the blood.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is a chemical compound formed by combining two naturally occurring amino acids, L-ornithine and L-aspartic acid, into a stable salt that is widely recognized for its role in supporting liver function.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate plays a crucial role in the urea cycle, which is the primary metabolic pathway responsible for detoxifying ammonia in the body, a process that becomes particularly important when liver function is impaired, such as in cases of hepatic encephalopathy or liver cirrhosis.
By providing substrates that enhance the activity of the urea cycle, L-Ornithine L-Aspartate helps to accelerate the conversion of toxic ammonia into urea, which can then be excreted from the body through urine, thereby reducing the harmful effects of elevated ammonia levels on the brain and other organs.
In medical applications, L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is commonly administered as an oral preparation, a powder, or an intravenous infusion, depending on the severity of the condition being treated, and it is often used as part of a therapeutic regimen to improve neurological symptoms associated with hyperammonemia.
Its mechanism of action involves not only enhancing urea synthesis but also stimulating glutamine synthesis in skeletal muscles, which provides an additional pathway for ammonia detoxification outside the liver.
Furthermore, L-Ornithine L-Aspartate has been observed to have a positive effect on protein metabolism, as it may promote protein synthesis and reduce protein breakdown, thereby improving nutritional status in patients with chronic liver disease.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is used to treat liver diseases such as acute and chronic hepatitis, chronic alcoholic liver damage, fatty liver, jaundice, liver cirrhosis, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease).
L Ornithine L Aspartate contains L-ornithine-L-aspartate, which rejuvenates the liver by increasing the rate of energy production in liver cells and decreasing ammonia levels in the blood by increasing ammonia detoxification.
In some cases, L Ornithine L Aspartate may cause side effects, such as headache, fatigue, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and nausea.
Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time.
However, consult your doctor if the side effects persist or worsen.
L-Ornithine L-aspartate is a stable salt of two natural nonessential L-amino acids with oral activity: ornithine and aspartic acid.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is considered to be well tolerated in clinical use, with a low incidence of side effects, although in rare cases, mild gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or diarrhea may occur.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is also marketed under several brand names, including Hepa-Merz, Ormeta, and Orparan, and it is widely available in many countries as a prescription medication for liver-related conditions.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate helps lower elevated ammonia levels in the bloodstream, which is crucial in managing conditions like hepatic encephalopathy, a condition caused by liver dysfunction leading to the buildup of toxins (especially ammonia) in the brain.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate aids the body's natural detox process by facilitating the conversion of ammonia into urea, which is then excreted in urine.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate contains amino acids such as ornithine and aspartic acid, which are involved in metabolic processes, particularly the urea cycle.
This medicine helps raise levels of arginine, an important amino acid that supports detoxification, immune function, and nitric oxide production.
It also offers hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) effects, especially in individuals with fatty liver disease or compromised liver function.
L Ornithine L Aspartate helps maintain a healthy nitrogen balance in the body by converting toxic nitrogen waste into less harmful forms.
By lowering ammonia levels, it may indirectly improve cognitive symptoms associated with hepatic encephalopathy, such as confusion or lethargy.
Produced during the urea cycle, ornithine is an amino acid produced from the splitting off of urea from arginine.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate allows for the disposal of excess nitrogen and acts as a precursor of citrulline and arginine.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate has been used as an API for liver treatment for many years.
Its ability to reduce ammonia levels also makes it ideal as a nutraceutical for the prevention of liver disease – and for sports nutrition, as it enables faster post-workout recovery.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate can be taken with or without food as advised by your doctor.
Follow your doctor's instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication to ensure safety.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartates high purity means it offers superior stability.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate has a uniform particle-size distribution, and a superior crystalline structure compared to similar products on the market.
Effective formulations are available or can be custom-developed on request.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is a chemical made up of the two amino acids ornithine and aspartic acid.
Most amino acids are used as building blocks to make protein. But L-ornithine-L-aspartate is not used to make protein.
Instead L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is broken down in the body to provide ornithine and aspartic acid.
L-ornithine-L-aspartate is most commonly used for reduced brain function in people with advanced liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy).
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is also used for athletic performance, cirrhosis, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is a non-proteinogenic α-amino acid that plays a role in the urea cycle.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is not incorporated into proteins during translation.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is abnormally accumulated in the body in ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, a disorder of the urea cycle.
Melting point: 202.0 to 206.0 °C
Storage temp.: 2-8°C
Solubility: Aqueous Acid (Sparingly)
Form: powder
Color: white
Odor: bland
Water Solubility: Water: 250 mg/mL (942.47 mM)
Merck: 14,6874
InChI: InChI=1S/C5H12N2O2.C4H7NO4/c6-3-1-2-4(7)5(8)9;5-2(4(8)9)1-3(6)7/h4H,1-3,6-7H2,(H,8,9);2H,1,5H2,(H,6,7)(H,8,9)/t4-;2-/m00/s1
InChIKey: IXUZXIMQZIMPSQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: C(O)(=O)C@HN.C(O)(=O)C@HN
LogP: -0.963 (est)
CAS DataBase Reference: 3230-94-2 (CAS DataBase Reference)
FDA UNII: JA08T3B97O
EPA Substance Registry System: L-Aspartic acid, compd. with L-ornithine (1:1) (3230-94-2)
UNSPSC Code: 12352209
NACRES: NA.26
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is a liver-protective supplement used to improve liver function and detoxification.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate helps reduce high ammonia levels in the blood, which can occur in liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis.
This combination enhances liver metabolism and supports recovery in patients with hepatic encephalopathy and other liver-related conditions.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate works at the cellular level to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with liver injury.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate has been shown to enhance the production of nitric oxide in endothelial cells, which may improve microcirculation within the liver, thereby supporting tissue repair and regeneration.
Additionally, it is thought to positively influence mitochondrial function, helping cells maintain energy homeostasis even under stress conditions induced by liver diseases.
L-Ornithine L-aspartate is a metabolite of arginine degradation by arginase.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate has been shown to reduce blood ammonia concentrations by increasing ammoniadetoxification in the muscle and reducing the severity of hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhosis.
General procedure for the synthesis of L-ornithine L-aspartate salt from L-aspartate and L-ornithine acetate: 22.5 g of L-ornithine acetate (monohydrate) and 13.3 g of L-aspartate were added to 20 mL of purified water and mixed with stirring.
Ammonium carbonate solution (prepared by dissolving 9.9 g of ammonium carbonate in 40 mL of pure water) was slowly added dropwise, with the rate of acceleration of the droplets being controlled in response to the accompanying slight exothermic and CO2 gas release.
After observing that the suspension gradually became clarified, stirring was continued for 10 min to ensure that the pH of the reaction solution was maintained at 7.0-8.0.
Subsequently, the reaction solution was heated to 70-80 °C, and 150 mL of methanol was slowly added to induce precipitation of solids.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is one of the products of the action of the enzyme arginase on L-arginine, creating urea.
Therefore, ornithine is a central component of the urea cycle, which enables the disposal of excess nitrogen.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate itself is recycled and, in a sense, acts as a catalyst.
First, ammonia is converted into carbamoyl phosphate (H2NC(O)OPO2−3) by carbamoyl phosphate synthetase.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate transcarbamylase then catalyzes the reaction between carbamoyl phosphate and ornithine to form citrulline and phosphate (Pi).
Another amino group is contributed by aspartate, leading to the formation of arginine and the byproduct fumarate.
The resulting arginine, a guanidinium compound, is subsequently hydrolyzed by arginase to regenerate ornithine and release urea.
The two nitrogen atoms in urea are derived from ammonia and aspartate, while the nitrogen atoms in ornithine remain unchanged.
Beyond its primary use in managing hyperammonemia, research suggests that L-Ornithine L-Aspartate may have additional benefits, such as improving fatigue, enhancing overall liver regeneration, and supporting metabolic functions in individuals with compromised liver health.
Its dual action on both the urea cycle and glutamine synthesis makes it an effective therapeutic agent for reducing the neurotoxic effects of ammonia, thus helping to prevent the progression of hepatic encephalopathy and improving patients’ quality of life.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is not only a therapeutic agent but also a biochemical enhancer that interacts with multiple metabolic pathways in the human body, making it a multifunctional compound with broader implications beyond ammonia detoxification.
Its active components, L-ornithine and L-aspartate, serve as important intermediates in amino acid metabolism, contributing to various anabolic and catabolic processes.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is a key participant in the ornithine cycle (urea cycle), where it acts as a carrier molecule, combining with carbamoyl phosphate to form citrulline, which eventually leads to the production of urea.
This step is crucial because it ensures the safe removal of excess nitrogen produced during protein metabolism, preventing the accumulation of toxic nitrogenous waste in the bloodstream.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate, the second component, is an amino acid that plays an essential role in both the urea cycle and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, linking nitrogen metabolism with energy production.
In the context of L-Ornithine L-Aspartate supplementation, aspartate enhances the flux through these metabolic pathways, providing an additional route for ammonia detoxification and energy generation.
Together, these two amino acids synergistically boost the body’s capacity to handle increased ammonia loads, which is particularly beneficial in patients with compromised liver function where the urea cycle is impaired.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is considered to have an excellent safety profile, even when used for extended periods, making it suitable for chronic conditions that require ongoing therapy.
The few reported side effects are mild and transient, and serious adverse reactions are extremely rare.
This makes it a preferred choice among clinicians for ammonia-lowering therapy compared to some other interventions that may carry greater risks.
Uses Of L-Ornithine L-Aspartate:
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate Salt is used as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy and hepatitis.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is used as a supportive treatment in various liver diseases.
The detailed uses of L Ornithine L Aspartate are as follows: • Manages Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE): L Ornithine L Aspartate helps reduce elevated blood ammonia levels, a major cause of HE (a decline in brain function due to severe liver disease), by converting ammonia into urea for safe excretion.
Supports Fatty Liver Disease Treatment: L Ornithine L Aspartate helps manage fatty liver by protecting liver cells from damage caused by fat buildup (lipid peroxidation), improving blood flow within the liver, and reducing liver inflammation.
Treats Acute and Chronic Hepatitis: L Ornithine L Aspartate helps improve liver function in patients with liver inflammation caused by infections, toxins, or other factors.
Manages Chronic Alcoholic Liver Damage: L Ornithine L Aspartate supports liver detoxification and regeneration in individuals with liver damage due to long-term alcohol use.
Supports Liver Cirrhosis Treatment: L Ornithine L Aspartate is used as an adjunct therapy in chronic liver conditions such as cirrhosis (permanent scarring of the liver).
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is primarily used in the medical field for the treatment and prevention of conditions associated with elevated blood ammonia levels, most notably hepatic encephalopathy, which is a serious complication of liver disease characterized by neuropsychiatric symptoms ranging from mild confusion to deep coma.
By facilitating the removal of excess ammonia through both the urea cycle in the liver and the glutamine synthesis pathway in skeletal muscles, this compound helps to protect brain function and prevent the neurological deterioration that often accompanies chronic liver disorders.
Another important use of L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is in the management of chronic liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, where it supports metabolic functions, enhances detoxification, and improves patients’ overall clinical outcomes.
In these conditions, its administration not only lowers ammonia levels but also contributes to better protein metabolism, helping to preserve muscle mass and improve nutritional status, which are often severely affected in patients with advanced liver disease.
In addition to its role in liver-related disorders, L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is sometimes employed to reduce fatigue and improve energy levels in patients experiencing chronic weakness due to liver dysfunction, as it supports mitochondrial activity and enhances energy metabolism.
Furthermore, it may be used as an adjunct therapy in acute liver failure or severe hepatitis, where rapid detoxification of ammonia is critical to preventing life-threatening complications.
Beyond its established clinical uses, L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is also investigated for potential benefits in metabolic conditions unrelated to liver disease, such as sarcopenia, a condition characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, where its ability to reduce ammonia-induced muscle breakdown and stimulate protein synthesis could have therapeutic value.
Additionally, some research suggests it might be beneficial for athletes or individuals undergoing intense physical training, as it may help in accelerating recovery, reducing exercise-induced fatigue, and optimizing nitrogen balance by promoting the efficient removal of ammonia generated during strenuous activity.
In hospital settings, L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy that includes dietary modifications, other medications, and sometimes even procedures like lactulose therapy, thereby playing a supportive yet essential role in restoring metabolic stability and improving quality of life in patients with compromised liver function.
Its versatility in administration, with both oral and intravenous formulations available, makes it suitable for use in a wide range of clinical scenarios, from emergency interventions to long-term maintenance therapy.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate also finds application in improving cognitive and neurological outcomes in patients who suffer from minimal hepatic encephalopathy, a subtle but significant form of cognitive impairment that often precedes more severe stages of the disease.
In this context, continuous use of the compound helps enhance mental clarity, attention span, and overall daily functioning, which ultimately improves the patient’s ability to perform routine tasks and maintain independence despite the presence of chronic liver disease.
In patients with advanced cirrhosis, where protein metabolism is severely disrupted and muscle wasting is common, L-Ornithine L-Aspartate serves a dual purpose by lowering ammonia levels and supporting muscle tissue through improved nitrogen utilization.
This dual benefit is particularly valuable because it addresses both the toxic and nutritional aspects of the disease simultaneously, leading to improved physical strength and a reduced risk of complications such as recurrent encephalopathy episodes.
Additionally, L-Ornithine L-Aspartate has been utilized in the perioperative management of patients undergoing liver transplantation or other major liver surgeries.
In these cases, its ability to stabilize ammonia levels and support liver function can be beneficial in reducing post-surgical complications and promoting recovery during the critical postoperative period.
Some clinical settings have also employed L-Ornithine L-Aspartate as a supportive therapy in cases of severe alcohol intoxication and alcoholic hepatitis, where ammonia levels can rise significantly and exacerbate the toxic effects of alcohol on the liver and brain.
By facilitating ammonia detoxification and enhancing hepatic metabolic capacity, the compound aids in stabilizing patients during acute crises and may accelerate the recovery process.
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate could have potential as a hepatoprotective agent in conditions involving drug-induced liver injury, where it may help counteract the accumulation of toxic metabolites and support the regeneration of liver cells.
Similarly, it is being investigated for its role in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a progressive liver disease linked to metabolic syndrome, due to its beneficial effects on liver detoxification pathways and inflammation reduction.
Safety Profile Of L-Ornithine L-Aspartate:
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is generally considered to be a very safe compound when used at therapeutic doses, but like all medications, it may present certain hazards or risks under specific conditions.
In most patients, it is well tolerated; however, excessive intake or inappropriate use can lead to unwanted effects, particularly in individuals with underlying medical problems.
One of the primary hazards is the possibility of gastrointestinal disturbances, which may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and mild diarrhea.
These effects are usually transient and resolve when the dosage is adjusted or the treatment is discontinued.
In rare cases, patients may experience stomach pain and bloating, especially when the compound is taken orally in high concentrations.
Another concern involves allergic reactions, although they are extremely rare.
Hypersensitivity to any of the components in L-Ornithine L-Aspartate formulations could manifest as skin rashes, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Patients with known allergies to amino acid-based supplements should use the medication cautiously and under medical supervision.