Medications
Supplements and Nitrates
nitroglycerin, isosorbide
Caution
NAC can intensify nitroglycerin. NAC enhances nitrate-induced vasodilation. In a clinical trial, combining them caused frequent, often intolerable headaches; low blood pressure is also possible.
Note
Arginine may add to the blood-pressure drop from nitrates. Both raise nitric oxide. They haven't been studied together; watch for dizziness or light-headedness.
- 01Dong JY et al. Effect of oral L-arginine supplementation on blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Am Heart J 2011.
- 02No direct human interaction studies found in PubMed (searched 2026-09-30) — theoretical, based on mechanism
Citrulline may add to the blood-pressure drop from nitrates. Citrulline raises arginine and nitric oxide. They haven't been studied together; watch for dizziness or light-headedness.
- 01Schwedhelm E et al. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of oral L-citrulline and L-arginine: impact on nitric oxide metabolism. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2008.
- 02No direct human interaction studies found in PubMed (searched 2026-09-30) — theoretical, based on mechanism
Common questions
Can I take NAC with Nitrates?
NAC can intensify nitroglycerin. NAC enhances nitrate-induced vasodilation. In a clinical trial, combining them caused frequent, often intolerable headaches; low blood pressure is also possible.
Can I take L-Arginine with Nitrates?
Arginine may add to the blood-pressure drop from nitrates. Both raise nitric oxide. They haven't been studied together; watch for dizziness or light-headedness.
Can I take L-Citrulline with Nitrates?
Citrulline may add to the blood-pressure drop from nitrates. Citrulline raises arginine and nitric oxide. They haven't been studied together; watch for dizziness or light-headedness.