Glutamine

Glutamine is used to help with muscle tissue growth and protection, energy storage, and immune system function in specific situations.

Glutamine is taken as a supplement for certain conditions, such as injuries, severe burns, stomach and intestinal issues that reduce the absorption of glutamine, or other situations that increase stress on the body.

Glutamine may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Your dose may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take the glutamine tablet or capsule ideally on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal) or after exercise.

Read and carefully follow the instructions for mixing and taking the glutamine powder. The glutamine powder can also be given through a feeding tube. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep each dose of the oral powder in its packet until you are ready to use it.

Follow all instructions on the label and package. Use it exactly as directed. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking other medicines or have any other medical conditions or allergies.

You should not use glutamine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• severe illness, including multiple organ failure; or
• liver or kidney disease.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if glutamine is safe to use if you have or have ever had:

• seizures or epilepsy;
• bipolar disorder (manic depression); or
• a medical condition or take any other medicines.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Glutamine may cause serious side effects. Stop using glutamine and call your doctor right away if you have:

• a seizure;
• manic episodes--racing thoughts, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, risk-taking behavior, being agitated or talkative; or
• liver problems--loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Less serious side effects may be more likely, or you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Usual Adult Dose for Dietary Supplement:

Average Dose: 10 g orally 3 times per dayDosing range: 5 g to 30 g orally per day

Usual Adult Dose for Short Bowel Syndrome:

Oral: 5 g orally 6 times per day at 2 to 3 hour intervals, with meals or snacks, while awake, for up to 16 weeks; to be used in combination with growth hormone and nutritional support.

Usual Adult Dose for Sickle Cell Anemia:

In a clinical study of 7 patients after 4 weeks of therapy with glutamine at 30 g orally per day, there was clinical benefit in reducing the oxidative susceptibility of sickle red blood cells.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Sickle Cell Anemia:

In a clinical study of 27 children (5.2 to 17.9 years old) after 24 weeks of therapy with glutamine at 600 mg/kg/day orally there was clinical benefit seen in resting energy expenditure and improvement in nutritional parameters.

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is close to the time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any restrictions on food, drinks, or activities.

Other drugs may affect glutamine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.