Immune support
Look for
Also goodThe everyday oneL-lysine HCl capsules or tablets
What variations of L-lysine exist?
An essential amino acid you get from protein foods. It's mostly used to help prevent cold sore outbreaks. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
Medical Disclaimer
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Pick by what you want help with
Skin
Look for
Also goodThe lip oneLysine cream or lip balm
- Also consider
- Budget-friendly: the everyday one (L-lysine HCl capsules or tablets)
Every form, in plain words
The everyday one
L-lysine HCl capsules or tablets
The common, inexpensive form used in most studies.
Good for: Immune support · Budget-friendly
The lip one
Lysine cream or lip balm
Goes right on a cold sore. Often mixed with zinc or herbs like lemon balm.
Good for: Skin
The team-up
Cold sore and immune blends
Pair lysine with vitamin C, zinc, or herbs. Check how much lysine you get per serving.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'L-lysine HCl capsules or tablets' on the label (the everyday one)
Watch out for
- Cold sore blends where lysine is a small amount in a proprietary mix
Check with your provider first if…
- You have kidney disease
- You take a lot of calcium, since lysine helps your body absorb more of it
- You take an antibiotic like gentamicin (an aminoglycoside). Lysine may add to its effect on the kidneys.
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (high doses aren't well studied)
- An upset stomach or diarrhea can happen at high doses
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.