L-Ornithine for Shift Work Sleep Disorder

Based on 3 studies (2 RCTs). 2/3 studies show positive effects.

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The Bottom Line

Based on 3 studies (2 RCTs). 2/3 studies show positive effects.

Key Study Findings

Randomized Controlled Trial 1.0 weeks Double-blind

A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled crossover trial on the effect of l-ornithine ingestion on the …

Dose: 400 mg vs: Placebo Outcome: Circadian rhythm parameters Effect: None None

Population: Healthy adults

Randomized Controlled Trial 8.0 weeks Double-blind

Randomised controlled trial of the effects of L-ornithine on stress markers and sleep quality in …

Dose: 400 mg/day vs: placebo Outcome: None Effect: None None

Population: healthy subjects

Review

Strategies of Functional Foods Promote Sleep in Human Being.

Dose: None vs: None Outcome: Sleep quality and insomnia prevention Effect: None None

Population: Adults with insomnia or sleep disorders

Key Statistics

Studies

Participants

↑

Positive

Grade

Referenced Papers

A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled crossover trial on the effect of l-ornithine ingestion on the human circadian clock. RCT

Chronobiology international 2018 13 citations

Randomised controlled trial of the effects of L-ornithine on stress markers and sleep quality in healthy workers. RCT

Nutrition journal 2014 76 citations

Strategies of Functional Foods Promote Sleep in Human Being. Other

Current signal transduction … 2014 41 citations

Dosage & Usage

mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units

Commonly Used Dosages

sleep:: 400-800 mg, 30-60 min before bed

Upper limit: Not formally established; 6,000 mg/day used in exercise studies

Dosages Studied in Research

Dosage	Duration	Effect	N
400 mg	1.0 weeks	Mixed	--
400 mg/day	8.0 weeks	Positive	--
None	--	Positive	--

Best taken: 30-60 minutes before bed on an empty stomach

Safety & Side Effects

Reported Side Effects

⚠ GI discomfort at high doses (diarrhea)
⚠ Insomnia at very high doses (paradoxical in some individuals)

Known Interactions

● Growth hormone secretagogues — ornithine may stimulate GH release
● Arginine supplements — metabolic interaction (urea cycle)

Tolerable upper intake: Not formally established; 6,000 mg/day used in exercise studies

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does L-Ornithine help with Shift Work Sleep Disorder?

Based on 3 studies with 0 participants, there is limited but promising evidence that L-Ornithine may support Shift Work Sleep Disorder management. Our evidence grade is C (Some Evidence).

How much L-Ornithine should I take for Shift Work Sleep Disorder?

Studies have used various dosages. A commonly studied range is 400-800 mg, 30-60 min before bed. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

Are there side effects of L-Ornithine?

Reported side effects may include GI discomfort at high doses (diarrhea), Insomnia at very high doses (paradoxical in some individuals). Most side effects are mild and dose-dependent. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.

How strong is the evidence for L-Ornithine and Shift Work Sleep Disorder?

We rate the evidence as Grade C (Some Evidence). This rating is based on 3 peer-reviewed studies with 0 total participants. The overall direction of effect is positive.

Related Evidence

Other ingredients for Shift Work Sleep Disorder

Melatonin A

L-Ornithine for other conditions

Insomnia C

Quick Verdict

Based on 3 studies (2 RCTs). 2/3 studies show positive effects.

Evidence Strength52%

Moderate confidence

Study Breakdown

RCT (2)Meta (0)Other (1)

Compare Alternatives

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FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.