How toxic is L-Lysine taken daily?

[sweetpoison]

I have Herpes, my breakout is only one area at the top of buttocks.  I have been taking Zovira 400mg daily (1 per day as suppresive measure) for at least 10 years.  I have had very few breakouts with it and none in the last couple of years.  I am looking to stop taking this since I have read much info about its long term possible side effects...... that it could effect liver levels, kidney, and possible hair loss (which I have).  I have heard a great deal about the use of L-Lysine in the natural treatment to suppress herpes and was wondering if this taken daily could build up and cause any serious side effects or does the body just flush what it does not need?  I have been searching on the internet and all I can find is that is has been shown to be helpful but nothing about the possible side effects.  Please help, I am attempting to get off all meds that are not necessary, I am almost 53 yrs. old and figure the body does not need prescription drugs that could cause other harm to organs.
Please advise me!!!

Vicki

[zostergal]

Thanks for your detailed helpful information (like useless expensive drugs). I get cold sores (herpes simplex) on the lips and buttocks, which seem to be nipped in the bud by Trilex capsules with L-lysine. I also use L-lysine ointments. Recently I was shocked to get shingles (herpes zoster) and am taking 1000 mg L-lysine morning and evening (large pill dissolved for several hours in fruit juice).  The night I forgot the L-lysine, my pain happened to be much worse, so I'm keeping on with it, and have had no noticeable side effects. Thanks to everyone for the great support.

[Rml81908]

I've had HSV 2 for the last 10 years. After the first year, I hardly ever had an outbreak (2-3 x a year). They were very mild. I wasn't even getting the blisters. It would sting for s couple of days in a tiny area like a papercut. I've recently started having outbreaks to the point where they are ALWAYS there. Just when I start to get relief, there it is, another patch of blisters. Blisters! Lots of them. I'm so beside myself. I've taken Valtrex, acyclovir, valcyclovir, and I just started famciclovir today.
What is going on with me? Why after 10 years has my herpes taken over my genital region?
I've started the lysine today, as well. I'm not sure how much to take? Help me, please.

[Prazup]

Thanks for the info.

[sweetkiss69]

I'm not sure if this has been stated here, but I wanted to say that tho it isn't for everyday use, if you DO get an outbreak on your lip or even genital, something that will almost immediately help is to brew a VERY strong cup of black tea and either use the tea bag or soak a paper towel in the tea and place it on the spot.  The tannins will actually help the sores stop hurting and will dry them up.  Can be done several times a day.

[shoeshine970]

Link about Lemon Balm and Herpes:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/105847-use-lemon-balm-herpes/

Link for Lemon Balm to buy online:

http://www.luckyvitamin.com/p-14265-herb-pharm-lemon-balm-1-oz?utm_source=amazonpa&utm_medium=CPC&utm_term=HerbPharm-LemonBalm-1oz.&utm_content=63379&utm_campaign=amazonpa&site=www.amazonproductads.com&mr:trackingCode=93381444-F00B-E111-AC9E-001B2163195C&mr:referralID=NA&

[shoeshine970]

Also the info regarding the amount of L-lysine to take is inconsistent. It seems to range from 1,000mg - 9,000mg depending on outbreak cycle. Take on empty stomach throughout day. Eat less foods that contain L-ARGININE. Google search L-arginine and herpes and there is lots of info. Monolaurin is another immune system booster that is supposed to help. I have been taking it for a couple weeks. It doesnt seem to do anything.