L-Ornithine L-Aspartate (LOLA) is a compound utilized in various medical settings. It is a stable combination of two naturally occurring amino acids, L-ornithine and L-aspartate. This formulation supports bodily functions, especially those related to metabolism and detoxification.
Understanding L-Ornithine L-Aspartate
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate (LOLA) is a stable salt composed of L-ornithine and L-aspartate, both non-essential amino acids. The body can synthesize these, but supplementation can be beneficial in certain conditions. LOLA’s stable salt form allows for the simultaneous delivery of these two amino acids, which participate in metabolic processes.
These amino acids are involved in the body’s nitrogen metabolism. L-ornithine directly participates in the urea cycle, a pathway for detoxifying ammonia. L-aspartate provides a substrate for this cycle and also plays a role in glutamine synthesis.
How L-Ornithine L-Aspartate Functions in the Body
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate primarily enhances the body’s ability to detoxify ammonia. Ammonia is a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism that, if accumulated, can be harmful. LOLA works through two main mechanisms to reduce ammonia levels: the urea cycle and glutamine synthesis.
In the urea cycle, L-ornithine acts as a substrate, facilitating the conversion of ammonia into urea within liver cells. Urea is a less toxic compound that the kidneys can then excrete. This process prevents ammonia buildup.
L-aspartate contributes to this detoxification by providing an amino group for urea synthesis. Both L-ornithine and L-aspartate stimulate glutamine production. Glutamine synthetase, an enzyme, incorporates ammonia into glutamine, another non-toxic compound that can be safely transported and eliminated. This dual action effectively reduces circulating ammonia.
Primary Uses of L-Ornithine L-Aspartate
The most significant medical application of L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is in managing hyperammonemia, a condition with elevated ammonia levels in the blood. This is particularly relevant in hepatic encephalopathy (HE). HE is a brain dysfunction in individuals with severe liver disease, where the liver cannot adequately remove toxins, leading to ammonia accumulation that affects brain function.
LOLA helps alleviate HE symptoms by lowering these toxic ammonia levels. By promoting ammonia detoxification through the urea cycle and glutamine synthesis, LOLA can improve neurological symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, and altered consciousness. Its role in managing ammonia-related complications of liver disease remains its most well-established use.
Important Considerations for Use
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is available in various forms, including oral granules and intravenous infusions. The specific dosage and method of administration are determined by a healthcare professional.
Side effects are generally mild and infrequent, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. LOLA may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with severe kidney impairment may have contraindications for its use, as kidneys excrete the end products of ammonia detoxification. Consulting a healthcare professional before initiating any treatment with L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is advised.