Evidence supporting the use of: L-Ornithine-L-aspartate
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

L-Ornithine-L-aspartate (LOLA) is used in the management of liver cirrhosis, particularly to address complications like hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Its use is based on scientific rationale and evidence. LOLA provides substrates (ornithine and aspartate) for the urea and glutamine synthesis pathways, which help detoxify ammonia—a neurotoxin that accumulates in patients with liver dysfunction, often leading to HE. By enhancing ammonia removal, LOLA helps improve mental status in affected patients.

Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have evaluated LOLA's efficacy. A 2013 Cochrane review concluded that LOLA may reduce blood ammonia levels and improve HE symptoms compared to placebo, though the evidence quality was rated as moderate due to study heterogeneity and methodological limitations. More recent reviews and clinical guidelines (such as those from EASL) recognize LOLA as an option for treating overt and minimal HE, though it is not necessarily considered superior to alternatives like lactulose or rifaximin. LOLA is generally well-tolerated.

There is less direct evidence for LOLA improving other cirrhosis outcomes (e.g., survival, liver function scores), but it is scientifically validated as an adjunct in HE management—a common and serious complication of cirrhosis. Thus, the evidence supporting its use in cirrhosis is moderate (3/5), being strongest for HE and less established for broader aspects of cirrhosis management.

More about L-Ornithine-L-aspartate
More about Cirrhosis of the Liver

Products containing L-Ornithine-L-aspartate

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