Doesn’t Agmatine Sulfate sound like one of those complex chemical names that were a pain to remember in school? Well, Agmatine Sulfate is simply a compound that might boost cognitive function and reduce depression.
Agmatine Sulfate is believed to be stored in neurons and is referred to as “super arginine”. Arginine elevates nitric oxide (NO) levels in the blood and directly influences nitric oxide synthase (NOS).
Since it has effects on NO synthase, you will find Agmatine sulfate in most pre-workout and pump supplements. The compound has various benefits. It might help improve muscle growth and enhance cognitive performance.
What Is Agmatine Sulfate?
Agmatine Sulfate is a metabolite of L-arginine. Arginine is an amino acid that is found in fish, dairy, and poultry, among other foods. Various studies suggest that arginine may benefit health by lowering blood pressure, relieving chest pain, and improving erectile dysfunction. [1]
Agmatine is derived from arginine via a process known as decarboxylation (the removal of a carboxylic acid group). A substance called arginine decarboxylase (ADC) works on arginine to convert it into Agmatine. [2]
How Does Agmatine Sulfate Work?
Agmatine Sulfate has several mechanisms of action. It can stimulate the release of insulin, boost nitric oxide synthesis, and inhibit calcium channels. This chemical substance can also modulate neurotransmitter receptors as well as induce neuroprotection.
Moreover, Agmatine stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreatic gland. It has also been shown to increase the cells’ glucose intake. These mechanisms help Agmatine treat high blood sugar by promoting a mild hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) state. [3]
Research has also shown that Agmatine Sulphate increases nitric oxide production in endothelial cells. It does that by binding to the cell surface on the endothelial cells and increasing cytosolic calcium. This results in an increase in endothelial nitric oxide synthase enzymes. [4]
Another research has found that Agmatine modulates several neurotransmitter receptors.
These receptors include NMDA, GABA, serotonin, AMPA, opioid, alpha 2, and imidazoline receptors. This shows that Agmatine may help treat several psychiatric disorders, such as depression. [5]
Potential Benefits of Agmatine Sulfate
Agmatine Sulfate offers a ton of benefits, such as reducing muscle fatigue, improving exercise performance, and enhancing cognitive function. This chemical substance also works against glutamate receptors to minimize pain and subsequent inflammation.
There’s also evidence to suggest that Agmatine Sulphate provides various neuroprotective benefits. Multiple studies have shown that it raises the body’s defense barriers against the likes of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and schizophrenia. [5]
Following are some of the other benefits of Agmatine Sulfate:
- May Increase Athletic Performance
- May Lower Blood Pressure
- May Enhance Cognitive Function
- May Protect the Brain Against Various Disorders
Let’s expound on the major Agmatine Sulfate benefits.
May Increase Athletic Performance
Agmatine increases athletic performance by stimulating nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide is responsible for vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels). Wider blood vessels help muscles receive more oxygen and nutrients, thereby enhancing exercise performance.
May Lower Blood Pressure
Agmatine lowers blood pressure by boosting the levels of free nitric oxide (NO) in the body, a known vasodilator. NO helps in the widening of blood vessels.
This allows it to reduce systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and enhance blood flow, lowering blood pressure. [6]
May Enhance Cognitive Function
Animal studies have shown that an increase in Agmatine levels in the brain’s hippocampus and prefrontal cortex regions may improve spatial learning and memory processing and cognitive functions.
These studies have found that Agmatine improves the encoding and recall of spatial information. [6]
Spatial learning is the process by which we make sense of the environment around us. Humans who have strong spatial learning skills have excellent visual memory.
They are also good at activities such as arts, computer graphics, geometry, and computer-assisted design.
May Protect the Brain Against Various Disorders
The good news is that Agmatine Sulfate might protect against various brain disorders. Studies have shown that Agmatine can protect your brain and reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, schizophrenia, and other disorders.
Similar to Piracetam, Agmatine Sulfate has many applications to not only protect the brain from age-related degeneration but to even help improve cognitive function.
May Lower Pain
Agmatine has been shown to reduce pain-associated behaviors in rodent models. The best thing about Agmatine is that its analgesic (pain-relieving) mechanism is different from morphine, which means a lower risk of addiction. [7]
Potential Side Effects of Agmatine
A five-year human study on Agmatine has established that it’s safe. Researchers studying the potential adverse effects of Agmatine took 2.67 g Agmatine Sulfate every day for five years.
Throughout this period, they underwent periodic physical examinations and lab blood and urine analyses. [8]
All the measurements remained within normal values, confirming the hypothesis that Agmatine Sulfate can be safely consumed for a long period without major adverse effects. Still, if you’re already taking other supplements or medicines that you think can react with Agmatine, seek medical advice.
Here are the side effects that may occur when using Agmatine:
- Nausea
- Gastrointestinal Discomfort
- Diarrhea
If you intend to use Agmatine Sulfate for pain relief, in pre-workouts, or for lowering blood pressure, take a minute to see through the list of side effects to see if you can tolerate them. If you’re unsure, consult a healthcare professional to seek medical advice.
Recommended Agmatine Dosage
Agmatine is dose-dependent. That means that its effects will change when the dose is changed. Another thing to remember is that the ideal Agmatine dosage is based on the purpose you’re using it for (i.e., bodybuilding, depression, etc.).
Make sure to take Agmatine at least 30 – 45 minutes before a workout. Health experts claim that this timing of the supplement is perfect for performance and recovery.
For those taking Agmatine for nootropic effects, it should be divided into several doses per day.
Here are the user-recommended Agmatine dosage guidelines:
| Dosage for Bodybuilding | Dosage for Pain | Dosage for depression | Dosage for Pump |
| 0.35 – 4 mg per pound of body weight. | 1.3 – 2.6 grams of Agmatine sulfate powder | 2 – 3.5 mg | 500 mg – 1000 mg of Agmatine half an hour before workout |
Agmatine Dosage for Bodybuilding
The recommended Agmatine dosage for bodybuilding ranges from 0. 35 – 4 mg per pound of body weight. This means if you weigh 120 lbs, you may want to take 87 mg – 349 mg of Agmatine per day. If you weigh 180 pounds, the recommended Agmatine dosage falls between 130mg and 549mg per day, and so on.
Agmatine Dosage for Depression
Individuals taking Agmatine for depression consume 2 – 3.5 of this chemical substance daily (on a milligram scale). Having said that, we suggest you consult your doctor before you start taking Agmatine for depression. They’re in the best position to guide you about whether or not you should take this supplement.
Agmatine Dosage for Pain
A study was carried out to assess the effect of this dietary supplement on neuropathic pain. It administered 1.3 – 2.6 grams of Agmatine sulfate powder per day to the participants. Individuals with lower levels of chronic pain amy want to stick to the lower end of this range.
Agmatine Dosage for Pump
If you want to get training benefits (energy, vasodilation, pump), users recommend taking 500 mg – 1000 mg of Agmatine half an hour before a workout. This will give the Agmatine supplement the time it needs to start delivering the intended effects.
Note: For best results, do not take dietary protein when you’re taking Agmatine. Dietary protein slows down this chemical substance’s absorption, preventing it from delivering the intended benefits.
Disclaimer:
The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Readers should consult with a healthcare professional before using Agmatine or any other supplement.
Top Vendors to Buy Agmatine Sulfate
We have done thorough research to facilitate you with the top Agmatine Sulfate vendors. Here are our top picks:
| Vendors | Price Range | Quality Assurance | Verdict |
| Purerawz | $17.98 | 1st and 3rd party verified for 99% purity | They source their products from renowned manufacturers so that their customers get standard quality products. |
| Behemothlabz | $35.48 | HPLC testing, 1st and 3rd party tested along with COA | The online shop focuses highly on the purity of its products so that customers can have a safe and sound experience. |
| RCD.Bio | $14.48 | Quality Tested | The vendor is famous because of their loyalty towards their customers. They provide the products they promise. |
| Science.bio | $13.99 | Third-Party Tested | You will get every product from this online shop at cost-effective prices. |
Disclaimer: Ensure to consult a healthcare provider for guidance on dosage, potential interactions, and safe use in your wellness routine.
On the Whole
Agmatine Sulfate is known for its effects on muscle growth and cognitive enhancement. It is derived from L-arginine and has promising benefits. There are various pre-workout formulas where you find the presence of this compound. Besides, Agmatine may help manage blood pressure and reduce symptoms of depression.
FAQs
1. Does Agmatine Raise Blood Pressure?
No, it does not raise the blood pressure. Agmatine has a vasodilatory effect that helps lower blood pressure. However, individual responses might vary. Those who already have blood pressure issues should always consult with a healthcare professional.
2. Is Agmatine Addictive?
Till now, there are no reports that suggest that Agmatine is addictive. It is believed that the drug does not produce a euphoric effect, typically associated with addictive substances.
3. How Does Agmatine Increase Dopamine?
Agmatine may increase dopamine levels by blocking an enzyme that breaks monoamine oxidase. It may also regulate other neurotransmitter receptors that help enhance overall dopaminergic activity in the brain.
4. Is Agmatine a Stress Reliever?
Yes, a few studies have shown that Agmatine is anxiety-reducing (anxiolytic effects). The drug may alleviate stress by modulating those neurotransmitters that are involved in mood regulation and alertness. However, there is no strong evidence that suggests its efficacy.
5. How Does Agmatine Help With Muscle Fatigue?
More nitric oxide (NO) in your system may also translate to less muscle soreness. That’s because Nitric oxide helps increase blood circulation to muscles during exercise. In doing so, it boosts the delivery of nutrients to active muscles and flushes out waste products that cause muscle fatigue.
6. Does Agmatine Help Increase Muscle Strength?
Yes, agmatine may help increase muscle strength and endurance by promoting blood flow and nitric oxide production.
Reference
- High-arginine foods: Sources, benefits, and risks. (2018, October 4). Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323259#high-arginine-foods
- Lortie, M. J., Novotny, W. F., Peterson, O. W., Vallon, V., Malvey, K., Mendonca, M., Satriano, J., Insel, P., Thomson, S. C., & Blantz, R. C. (1996). Agmatine, a bioactive metabolite of arginine. Production, degradation, and functional effects in the kidney of the rat. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 97(2), 413–420. https://doi.org/10.1172/jci118430
- Kang, S., Kim, C.-H., Jung, H., Kim, E., Song, H.-T., & Lee, J. E. (2017). Agmatine ameliorates type 2 diabetes induced-Alzheimer’s disease-like alterations in high-fat diet-fed mice via reactivation of blunted insulin signalling. Neuropharmacology, 113, 467–479. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.10.029
- Morrissey, J. J., & Klahr, S. (1997). Agmatine activation of nitric oxide synthase in endothelial cells. Proceedings of the Association of American Physicians, 109(1), 51–57. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9010916
- Valverde, A. P., Camargo, A., & Rodrigues, A. L. S. (2021). Agmatine as a novel candidate for rapid-onset antidepressant response. World Journal of Psychiatry, 11(11), 981–996. https://doi.org/10.5498/wjp.v11.i11.981
- Ramanlal, R., & Gupta, V. (2023, January 23). Physiology, Vasodilation. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557562/
- Courteix, C., Privat, A., Pelissier, T., Hernández, A., Alain Eschalier, & J. Fialip. (2007). Agmatine Induces Antihyperalgesic Effects in Diabetic Rats and a Superadditive Interaction with R(–)-3-(2-Carboxypiperazine-4-yl)-propyl-1-phosphonic Acid, a N-Methyl-d-aspartate-Receptor Antagonist. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 322(3), 1237–1245. https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.107.123018
- Gilad, G. M., & Gilad, V. H. (2014). Long-Term (5 Years), High Daily Dosage of Dietary Agmatine—Evidence of Safety: A Case Report. Journal of Medicinal Food, 17(11), 1256–1259. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2014.0026
