| Name | Ornithine |
| Uses | Amino acid involved in the urea cycle, supporting detoxification by assisting in ammonia clearance. May also support energy production, athletic recovery, and liver function. Commonly used in wellness IV protocols for detoxification, liver support, and performance enhancement. |
| Route Of Administration | Intravenous (IV) |
| Frequency Of Use | Typically administered once weekly for general detoxification and liver support. In athletic performance or intensive detox protocols, may be given up to twice weekly for 4 to 6 weeks, followed by reassessment. Long-term use should be reviewed every 8 to 12 weeks. |
| Concentration(s) | Common compounded concentrations range from 50 mg/mL to 100 mg/mL. |
| Maximum Dosage (Day, Wk) (g/mL)/mL | Maximum dose per infusion: 1,000 mg (1 g). Maximum weekly dose: 2,000 mg (2 g). Higher doses are not recommended for elective wellness patients due to risk of nitrogen overload. |
| Contraindications | Severe renal impairment or dialysis dependency (risk of impaired nitrogen clearance). Severe hepatic impairment. Known hypersensitivity to ornithine or any component of the formulation. Pregnancy and breastfeeding unless cleared by OB provider. |
| Possible Side Effects | Nausea, headache, flushing, or dizziness during infusion. Mild abdominal discomfort. Injection site irritation. Rare: allergic reactions (rash, itching, hypersensitivity). |
| Compatibility With Other Drugs | Compatible with normal saline and D5W. May be combined with other amino acids, vitamins, or antioxidants in comprehensive wellness IV formulations, but compatibility must always be verified when mixing. |
| Allergies | True allergy to ornithine is rare. Reactions are more likely related to preservatives or stabilizers in compounded formulations. |
| Administration Time | Typical infusion time: 30 to 45 minutes for doses up to 1,000 mg. Slower infusion may improve tolerability in sensitive patients. |
| IV Dosing | For general detoxification and liver support: 500 mg to 1,000 mg IV once weekly. For athletic performance or intensive detox: 1,000 mg IV once or twice weekly for 4 to 6 weeks, followed by reassessment. Long-term use requires periodic clinical review. |
| IM/Push | May be given as a slow IV push for doses up to 500 mg over 5 to 10 minutes. Higher doses should be administered via drip for better tolerability. IM administration is not recommended due to local irritation and muscle discomfort. |
| What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs | 1. Stop the infusion immediately. 2. Assess vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation). 3. If nausea, dizziness, or flushing occurs, place the patient in a comfortable position and offer oral fluids if tolerated. 4. For allergic reactions (rash, itching, shortness of breath), administer antihistamines and consider epinephrine if severe. 5. If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange for emergency transfer to a higher level of care (call 911 if necessary). |