Safety Profile
Overall safety rating: Generally Safe
Citrulline Malate Side Effects & Safety
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Potential Side Effects
- Mild GI discomfort (bloating, loose stools) at higher doses — generally well tolerated
- Heartburn in some individuals due to the malic acid component
- Very rare: mild headache potentially from increased NO-mediated vasodilation
Drug & Supplement Interactions
- PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil) — additive blood pressure lowering via enhanced NO pathway
- Antihypertensive medications — may potentiate blood pressure reduction
- Nitrates — additive vasodilation; use caution
Maximum Dose
Do not exceed: 10 g citrulline malate per day; higher doses may cause GI discomfort
References
- Pérez-Guisado J, Jakeman PM (2010). Citrulline malate enhances athletic anaerobic performance and relieves muscle soreness. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. DOI PubMed
- Schwedhelm E, Maas R, Freese R, et al. (2008). Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of oral L-citrulline and L-arginine. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. DOI PubMed
- Suzuki T, Morita M, Kobayashi Y, Kamimura A (2016). Oral L-citrulline supplementation enhances cycling time trial performance. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. DOI PubMed