Ornithine Alphaketoglutarate
Also known as: OKG, Ornithine Ketoglutarate, Ornithine Alphaketoglutarate
Overview
Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) is a synthetic salt composed of two molecules of ornithine and one molecule of alpha-ketoglutarate. While not naturally occurring as a compound, its components are naturally found in the body. Ornithine is an amino acid involved in the urea cycle, and alpha-ketoglutarate is a precursor to glutamine and a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle. OKG is primarily used to support muscle protein synthesis, wound healing, and improve nutritional status in malnourished or traumatized patients. It has been explored for potential benefits in conditions like burns, HIV/AIDS, and stroke. OKG is known for inducing the secretion of anabolic hormones such as insulin and growth hormone, and for increasing the synthesis of glutamine, proline, and arginine. Research on OKG is moderate, with clinical and animal studies suggesting potential benefits, but more comprehensive research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
Benefits
OKG has demonstrated potential benefits in several areas. It supports muscle protein synthesis, as shown in a study where postoperative patients maintained muscle protein synthesis and improved nitrogen balance with OKG supplementation. Animal studies indicate that OKG can improve nitrogen retention, with a higher fraction of nitrogen intake retained in trauma models. OKG is associated with increased secretion of anabolic hormones like insulin and growth hormone, contributing to its anabolic effects. It also increases the synthesis of glutamine and polyamines, which are important for tissue repair and growth. OKG has shown promise in improving nutritional status in malnourished patients and supporting postoperative recovery. While the effect sizes are significant, larger studies are needed to confirm the clinical significance of these findings.
How it works
OKG primarily works by increasing the secretion of anabolic hormones, including insulin and growth hormone. It also influences ornithine metabolism, diverting it towards the production of arginine, glutamine, and proline, all of which are crucial for tissue repair and growth. The mechanism involves the saturation of the ornithine aminotransferase-dependent pathway, leading to increased production of arginine and other metabolites. OKG interacts with metabolic pathways involved in protein synthesis, nitrogen balance, and the production of key metabolites. While the exact absorption and bioavailability mechanisms are not fully understood, its effects suggest that it is effectively absorbed and utilized by the body.
Side effects
OKG is generally considered safe for short-term oral use (up to 3 weeks), but long-term safety data are limited. Common side effects are not well-documented, but it is generally reported to be well-tolerated in short-term studies. Uncommon and rare side effects are not significantly documented in the available literature. There is limited data on drug interactions, and it is advised to use OKG under medical supervision. Due to insufficient information on safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid use in these conditions. Caution is advised when using OKG in special populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the lack of comprehensive safety data.
Dosage
While the minimum effective dose of OKG is not well-established, studies have used doses ranging from 0.35 g/kg body weight per day to 10-30 grams per day. Optimal dosages are often between 10-30 grams per day for oral administration, as used in clinical studies. The maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, but doses up to 30 grams per day have been used without significant adverse effects. Timing can vary depending on the clinical context, but it is often administered postoperatively or during periods of malnutrition. OKG can be administered orally or through feeding tubes under medical supervision. Absorption factors are not extensively studied, but oral administration appears to be effective.
FAQs
Is OKG safe?
OKG is considered safe for short-term use, but long-term safety data are lacking. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient data.
How should I take OKG?
OKG can be taken orally or via feeding tube, typically under medical supervision. Timing depends on the clinical context, such as post-surgery.
What are the expected benefits of OKG?
OKG may improve muscle protein synthesis and nitrogen balance, potentially aiding wound healing and nutritional status, especially in clinical settings.
Is OKG the same as ornithine or alpha-ketoglutarate?
No, OKG is a compound of both, and its effects are synergistic, not the same as taking each separately.
Who should use OKG?
OKG is typically used under medical supervision for individuals needing support for muscle protein synthesis, wound healing, or nutritional status.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3118827/ – This clinical trial on 15 patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery found that OKG maintained muscle protein synthesis and improved nitrogen balance compared to the control group over a 3-day period. The study suggests that OKG can be beneficial in postoperative recovery by supporting muscle protein metabolism, though the small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8814202/ – An animal study using a rat trauma model showed that OKG-fed rats had a higher fraction of nitrogen intake retained in the body compared to the basal diet group over a 4-day period. This indicates that OKG may enhance nitrogen retention, which is crucial for tissue repair and growth after trauma, but the results need to be confirmed in human studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15465801/ – This review article highlights that OKG increases the production of arginine, glutamine, and proline by diverting ornithine metabolism. It suggests that OKG's benefits stem from its role as a precursor to these key metabolites, which are essential for tissue repair, growth, and overall metabolic function, providing a comprehensive overview of OKG's metabolic effects.
- https://research.vu.nl/ws/portalfiles/portal/160079366/AlphaKetoglutarate_dietary_supplementation_to_improve_health_in_humans.pdf – This paper discusses the potential of alpha-ketoglutarate dietary supplementation to improve health in humans. It covers various aspects, including its role in protein metabolism and potential therapeutic applications, providing a broad overview of the benefits of alpha-ketoglutarate and related compounds like OKG.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-642/ornithine-ketoglutarate – This WebMD article provides general information about ornithine ketoglutarate, including its uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It serves as a consumer-friendly resource, summarizing key aspects of OKG and offering practical information for those considering its use.
