Best Lysine Supplements (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
L-lysine is an essential amino acid your body can’t produce on its own, making supplementation valuable for immune support, collagen synthesis, and cold sore prevention. With research showing benefits at doses between 650mg and 3,000mg daily, choosing the right product matters.
The best lysine supplements use free-form L-lysine HCl for optimal absorption, provide clinically relevant doses, and come from reputable manufacturers with third-party testing. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Servings | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L-Lysine Gummies 1000mg | L-Lysine 1000mg, Immune Support Blend | 60 | Gummies | Best Overall |
| NOW Foods Double Strength L-Lysine 1000mg | L-Lysine HCl 1000mg | 100 | Tablets | Best Value |
| Quantum Health SuperLysine+ 1500mg | L-Lysine 1500mg, Vitamin C, Echinacea, Garlic | 60 | Tablets | Best for Cold Sores |
| Solgar L-Lysine 1000mg | Free-Form L-Lysine 1000mg | 250 | Tablets | Best Premium Option |
| 2-Pack Lysine Gummies 1000mg | L-Lysine 1000mg | 120 | Gummies | Best Budget Option |
| Bronson L-Lysine Defense 1500mg | L-Lysine 1500mg, Vitamin C, Zinc, Olive Leaf | 90 | Capsules | Best Immune Complex |
| Pure Encapsulations L-Lysine 500mg | L-Lysine HCl 500mg | 90 | Capsules | Best Hypoallergenic |
| Liposomal L-Lysine 1000mg Liquid Drops | Liposomal L-Lysine 1000mg, Vitamin C, E | 30 | Liquid | Best Absorption |
| Thorne Lysine 500mg | L-Lysine Monohydrochloride 500mg | 60 | Capsules | Best Professional Grade |
| L-Lysine 1000mg Tablets | Free-Form L-Lysine 1000mg | 100 | Tablets | Best High-Potency |
1. L-Lysine Gummies 1000mg – Best Overall
Why it stands out: These gummies deliver a full 1,000mg of L-lysine per serving with immune support ingredients, making them both effective and easy to take—no pill swallowing required.
Each serving provides the clinically studied 1,000mg dose in a chewable format that’s vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free. The formula supports cold sore prevention, immune function, and collagen production—the three primary benefits people seek from lysine supplementation. The pleasant taste makes daily compliance effortless, which is crucial since lysine works best with consistent use over time.
At 60 gummies per bottle, you get a full month’s supply at a competitive price point. The immune support blend enhances the base lysine formula, making this more than a basic amino acid supplement. For those who’ve struggled to maintain a pill-based supplement routine, the gummy format often makes the difference between sporadic use and daily consistency.
Pros:
- Full 1,000mg clinical dose per serving
- Easy-to-take gummy format with pleasant taste
- Vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free formulation
- Supports both immunity and collagen synthesis
Cons:
- Contains added sweeteners for palatability
- Gummies require more storage care in warm climates
Best for: Anyone who struggles with swallowing pills or wants a more enjoyable supplement routine without sacrificing efficacy.
2. NOW Foods Double Strength L-Lysine 1000mg – Best Value
Why it stands out: NOW Foods has been a trusted name in supplements since 1968, and their double-strength lysine delivers pharmaceutical-grade quality at an unbeatable price per serving.
This formula provides 1,000mg per tablet—double the standard 500mg dose—from L-lysine hydrochloride for optimal absorption. NOW Foods operates NPA A-rated GMP certified facilities, meaning every aspect of manufacturing meets rigorous quality standards. The tablets are vegan, non-GMO, and free from common allergens including soy, gluten, dairy, and eggs. You can take one tablet once or twice daily depending on your needs.
Pros:
- Pharmaceutical-grade lysine
- NPA A-rated GMP certified
- Extensive third-party testing
- Family-owned company with 50+ year track record
Cons:
- Large tablet size may be difficult for some to swallow
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a reputable brand with transparent quality standards and excellent value.
3. Quantum Health SuperLysine+ 1500mg – Best for Cold Sores
Why it stands out: This award-winning formula combines a high 1,500mg lysine dose with five immune-boosting ingredients specifically designed for cold sore prevention and outbreak management.
SuperLysine+ goes beyond basic lysine with a comprehensive formula including vitamin C (100mg), deodorized garlic, echinacea, bee propolis, and licorice root. This combination strategically targets the arginine-lysine balance that influences cold sore outbreaks—the herpes simplex virus requires arginine to replicate, and lysine helps maintain healthy arginine levels in the body.
The product has been the bestselling lysine supplement in natural stores for over 40 years for good reason—it’s formulated specifically for oral health and immune challenges by a company that pioneered lysine supplementation for cold sore management. The specially coated tablets contain no artificial colors, flavors, yeast, wheat, milk, rye, soy, oats, barley, or sugar. Take three tablets daily for year-round support or increase during outbreaks.
Pros:
- Highest lysine dose at 1,500mg per serving
- Multi-ingredient immune support formula
- Specifically designed for cold sore prevention
- Award-winning brand with 40+ years of expertise in lysine formulas
Cons:
- Requires three tablets per dose
- Not suitable for those with high blood pressure (contains licorice)
- More expensive than standalone lysine products
Best for: Anyone dealing with recurring cold sores who wants a comprehensive formula targeting outbreak prevention with its high-dose lysine and immune-boosting herbs.
4. Solgar L-Lysine 1000mg – Best Premium Option
Why it stands out: With over 75 years in the supplement industry, Solgar’s commitment to quality shows in their free-form lysine formulation that promotes optimal absorption and assimilation.
Solgar uses free-form L-lysine HCl, which means the amino acid is in its most bioavailable state for your body to absorb. The 250-tablet bottle provides exceptional long-term value for a premium brand. Their amber glass bottles protect ingredients from light degradation, and the formula is vegan, kosher, non-GMO, and free from gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, yeast, sugar, and artificial additives. Solgar maintains “Gold Standard” manufacturing practices with rigorous quality control.
Pros:
- Free-form lysine for enhanced absorption
- Glass bottle protects ingredient integrity
- Extensive allergen-free certifications
- Established premium brand reputation
Cons:
- Higher price point than generic options
Best for: Those who prioritize ingredient quality and brand reputation and are willing to pay more for premium manufacturing standards.
5. 2-Pack Lysine Gummies 1000mg – Best Budget Option
Why it stands out: This 120-count twin pack delivers the same 1,000mg dose as premium gummies at roughly half the per-serving cost, making it ideal for long-term supplementation.
Getting two bottles for the price competitors charge for one makes this an outstanding value. The gummies provide immune support for lips and oral health while boosting collagen production. They’re gluten-free and suitable for both adults and children who have difficulty swallowing tablets. The chewable format also means faster absorption compared to tablets that need to dissolve first.
Pros:
- Excellent value with 120 gummies
- Kid-friendly chewable format
- Same 1,000mg dose as premium options
- No pills to swallow
Cons:
- May contain common allergens (check label)
- Sugar content higher than capsule forms
Best for: Families or anyone who needs to stretch their supplement budget without compromising on dose or format preference.
6. Bronson L-Lysine Defense 1500mg – Best Immune Complex
Why it stands out: Bronson combines a hefty 1,500mg lysine dose with olive leaf, garlic, vitamin C, and zinc—creating a comprehensive immune support formula manufactured in a New York cGMP facility.
This formula takes a multi-pronged approach to immune health. Lysine helps maintain healthy arginine levels, which is important for both immune function and cold sore management. Olive leaf extract provides oleuropein, a compound with traditional use for immune challenges. Garlic adds antimicrobial properties that have been valued across cultures for centuries. Vitamin C and zinc round out the formula with essential nutrients your immune system needs to function optimally.
Bronson conducts in-house laboratory testing at their state-of-the-art New York facility, ensuring each batch meets their quality standards. The company has been in the supplement business since 1960, bringing decades of manufacturing experience to their products. The formula is non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free, and requires three capsules per serving to deliver the full dose.
Pros:
- Comprehensive immune-focused formula with multiple support pathways
- High 1,500mg lysine dose
- Made in USA with in-house laboratory testing
- Includes vitamin C and zinc for additional immune support
Cons:
- Contains garlic which some may find odorous
- Multiple capsules required per serving
- Larger bottle may not suit those wanting to try before committing
Best for: Those seeking immune system support beyond what standalone lysine provides, especially during cold and flu season or periods of increased stress.
7. Pure Encapsulations L-Lysine 500mg – Best Hypoallergenic
Why it stands out: Pure Encapsulations is the go-to brand for people with sensitivities—their lysine contains zero additives, fillers, or common allergens, making it the cleanest option available.
If you react to the additives in other supplements, Pure Encapsulations delivers just free-form L-lysine HCl in a vegetarian capsule with ascorbyl palmitate—nothing else. No stearates, no fillers, no “other ingredients” that trigger sensitivities. The company is known for sourcing only premium ingredients and maintaining strict quality control that exceeds industry standards.
Healthcare practitioners frequently recommend this brand for patients with multiple chemical sensitivities, autoimmune conditions, or those following elimination diets. Every ingredient is GMO-free, and the company maintains full supply chain transparency. The 500mg dose allows flexible dosing—take one to three capsules daily based on your needs, making it easy to customize your intake. For those needing higher doses, Pure Encapsulations also offers a 270-capsule bottle for better value.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic formula with minimal, clean ingredients
- Free from all common allergens and GMOs
- Practitioner-recommended and trusted brand
- Flexible dosing with 500mg capsules allows customization
Cons:
- Lower dose requires multiple capsules for clinical amounts
- Premium price reflects the brand name and quality standards
Best for: Anyone with food sensitivities, allergies, or those following elimination diets who need the purest possible supplement without any additives.
8. Liposomal L-Lysine 1000mg Liquid Drops – Best Absorption
Why it stands out: Liposomal delivery technology wraps lysine in phospholipid spheres that dramatically increase absorption compared to standard tablets or capsules—some studies suggest up to 5x better bioavailability.
This liquid formula uses liposomal encapsulation to protect lysine through the digestive system and deliver it directly into cells. The phospholipid coating mimics your cell membranes, allowing nutrients to pass through easily. The dropper format makes dosing precise and convenient, and you can add it to any beverage or take it directly.
The formula includes olive leaf extract and vitamins E and C for additional antioxidant and immune support. Each 4 fl oz bottle provides approximately 30 servings, making it ideal for those who want maximum absorption from their supplement or who have compromised digestive function that limits absorption from traditional forms. While the cost per serving is higher than tablets, you’re getting significantly more lysine into your bloodstream.
Pros:
- Superior absorption via liposomal delivery technology
- Easy liquid format—no pills to swallow
- Added antioxidant vitamins enhance immune support
- Precise dropper dosing for customization
Cons:
- More expensive per serving than tablets or capsules
- Smaller serving count per bottle
- Must be refrigerated after opening for stability
Best for: Those with digestive issues, absorption problems, or anyone seeking maximum bioavailability and the most efficient use of their lysine supplement.
9. Thorne Lysine 500mg – Best Professional Grade
Why it stands out: Thorne is chosen by over 100 professional sports teams and is the #1 recommended brand by healthcare practitioners—their lysine reflects that clinical-grade standard.
Thorne uses L-lysine monohydrochloride, a readily absorbed form of this essential amino acid. The company is known for exceeding regulatory standards with extensive testing and pure ingredients. As an official partner of U.S. National Teams, their products undergo rigorous NSF Certified for Sport testing. Each capsule provides 500mg, allowing you to customize your dose from 500-1,500mg daily based on your needs.
Pros:
- Trusted by professional athletes and practitioners
- NSF Certified for Sport testing available
- Superior manufacturing standards
- Clean, minimal ingredient formula
Cons:
- Higher price reflects professional-grade quality
- Lower dose requires multiple capsules
Best for: Athletes, health professionals, and anyone who wants the same quality supplements used by elite performers and recommended by practitioners.
10. L-Lysine 1000mg Tablets – Best High-Potency
Why it stands out: These high-strength tablets deliver a full 1,000mg per serving in free-form L-lysine for maximum potency and absorption at an affordable price point.
This straightforward formula focuses on delivering a clinical dose of pure L-lysine without unnecessary extras. The free-form format ensures optimal absorption, while the vegan, non-GMO formula suits various dietary preferences. At 100 tablets per bottle, you get over three months of daily supplementation. The product supports eye health, lip care, collagen synthesis, and immune function—all the core benefits of lysine supplementation.
Pros:
- High-potency 1,000mg dose
- Free-form lysine for better absorption
- Vegan and non-GMO
- Excellent value with 100 servings
Cons:
- Basic formula without additional nutrients
- Tablet form may not suit everyone
Best for: Those who want a potent, no-frills lysine supplement without immune-boosting add-ons or premium pricing.
What is L-Lysine and Who Should Take It?
L-lysine is one of nine essential amino acids your body cannot manufacture on its own. It must come from diet or supplementation. While protein-rich foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy contain lysine, vegetarians, vegans, and those with limited protein intake may benefit from supplementation. The recommended daily intake for adults is approximately 30mg per kilogram of body weight, translating to roughly 2,100mg for a 150-pound person.
Your body uses lysine for protein synthesis, collagen production, calcium absorption, and carnitine formation (which converts fat to energy). Lysine is particularly crucial for forming collagen, the structural protein that makes up skin, tendons, cartilage, and bone. This makes it popular among those concerned with skin aging and joint health.
People most likely to benefit from lysine supplementation include those prone to cold sores (lysine inhibits arginine, which the herpes virus needs to replicate), anyone focused on skin and connective tissue health, athletes supporting muscle recovery and protein synthesis, individuals managing stress since lysine may influence cortisol and anxiety levels, and older adults who may have reduced absorption or dietary intake.
How to Choose the Right Lysine Supplement
Key Ingredients to Look For
The most bioavailable form is L-lysine HCl (hydrochloride) in free-form, meaning it’s not bound to other compounds and can be absorbed immediately without additional digestion. Look for products providing 500-1,500mg per serving, as research shows benefits within this range. For cold sore prevention specifically, higher doses around 1,000-3,000mg daily show the best results in studies.
Be aware that L-lysine HCl contains about 20% hydrochloride by weight—a 1,270mg L-lysine HCl dose actually provides 1,000mg of pure lysine. Quality brands clearly state the actual lysine content, not just the compound weight. This distinction matters when comparing products.
Some formulas add complementary ingredients like vitamin C (enhances collagen synthesis and immune function), zinc (immune support and wound healing), or herbs like echinacea, garlic, and propolis for comprehensive immune coverage. These combinations work well for immune-focused goals but aren’t necessary for everyone.
Forms Compared
Tablets and capsules offer precise dosing, longer shelf life, and typically the lowest cost per serving. They’re ideal for those comfortable swallowing pills and wanting straightforward supplementation. Tablets tend to be larger than capsules but may offer higher doses per unit.
Gummies provide better compliance for those who dislike pills, though they may contain added sugars (typically 2-4 grams per serving). They also tend to cost more per milligram of lysine. However, the improved consistency of actually taking your supplement often outweighs these drawbacks.
Powders allow flexible dosing and easy mixing into smoothies, juice, or water. They’re often the most economical option and ideal for those needing higher or customized doses. The taste is relatively neutral.
Liposomal liquids offer superior absorption by encapsulating lysine in phospholipid spheres that protect it through digestion and deliver it directly to cells. This technology significantly increases bioavailability but comes at a premium price.
What to Avoid
Skip products that only list “L-lysine hydrochloride” weight without clarifying actual lysine content—about 20% of that weight is the hydrochloride, not lysine. This labeling practice can mislead consumers into thinking they’re getting more lysine than they actually receive.
Avoid supplements with excessive fillers, artificial colors, titanium dioxide, or unnecessary additives. Check that third-party testing or GMP certification backs the product’s quality claims. Look for brands that conduct or commission independent testing to verify label accuracy and purity.
Also be cautious with products making unrealistic claims. While lysine has documented benefits for cold sores, collagen support, and immune function, it’s not a cure-all. Avoid formulations that add dozens of ingredients in token amounts—these “kitchen sink” formulas often provide insufficient doses of everything.
Side Effects and Precautions
Lysine is generally well-tolerated at recommended doses, with most people experiencing no side effects at all. When they do occur, the most common issues are mild digestive disturbances including nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, or bloating. These effects are more likely at higher doses (above 3,000mg daily) and typically resolve by reducing the dose or taking lysine with food.
Taking lysine between meals on an empty stomach optimizes absorption, but if this causes digestive upset, taking it with a small amount of food is an acceptable compromise. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing also helps your body adjust.
Those with kidney or liver disease should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing, as high lysine intake may affect these organs. Some research suggests very high lysine doses could potentially contribute to kidney issues over time, though this hasn’t been observed at typical supplemental doses. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also seek medical guidance, as there’s limited safety data in these populations.
Lysine may interact with calcium supplements since it increases calcium absorption—generally beneficial, but worth monitoring if you take high-dose calcium. It also interacts with aminoglycoside antibiotics (like gentamicin), potentially increasing the risk of kidney damage. If you take any prescription medications, particularly antibiotics or drugs affecting calcium metabolism, check with your doctor before starting lysine supplementation.
FAQs
How much lysine should I take daily?
For general health maintenance, 500-1,000mg daily is typical and aligns with most research on preventive benefits. For cold sore prevention specifically, studies typically use 1,000-3,000mg daily, often divided into two or three doses throughout the day for sustained blood levels. During active outbreaks, some practitioners recommend temporarily increasing to 3,000mg, though this should be done under healthcare guidance.
When is the best time to take lysine?
Take lysine between meals on an empty stomach for best absorption, as it competes with other amino acids (especially arginine) for uptake in the intestines. Taking it first thing in the morning or a few hours after dinner works well for most people. If it causes stomach upset, taking it with a small amount of food is acceptable and won’t dramatically reduce effectiveness. Consistency matters more than perfect timing—choose a schedule you’ll stick with daily.
How long does lysine take to work?
For cold sore prevention, most people notice a reduction in outbreak frequency within four to six weeks of consistent daily use. Some may see benefits sooner, while others may need up to three months of supplementation. For skin and collagen benefits, expect two to three months before visible changes in skin texture or firmness. Immune support effects may be noticed sooner, particularly during periods of immune challenge.
Can I take too much lysine?
While lysine is generally safe, very high doses (10-15 grams daily) taken long-term have been associated with gallstones, kidney issues, and elevated cholesterol in some research studies. These doses are far beyond typical supplementation, but it illustrates why moderation matters. Stick to recommended doses (typically under 3,000mg daily) unless supervised by a healthcare provider. Most supplements provide well within safe ranges, and toxicity at normal supplemental doses is extremely rare.
Does lysine interact with other supplements?
Lysine enhances calcium absorption, which is generally beneficial but worth noting if you take high-dose calcium supplements—you may not need as much calcium if you’re also supplementing lysine. It competes with arginine for absorption—this is actually desirable for cold sore management since arginine can trigger outbreaks, but those taking arginine for cardiovascular benefits may need to separate doses. Space lysine away from protein-heavy meals or amino acid supplements for best absorption.
Is lysine safe to take long-term?
Yes, studies have followed participants taking 1,000-3,000mg daily for months to years without significant adverse effects in healthy adults. Lysine has been used as a supplement for decades with an excellent safety profile. However, periodic breaks or cycling may be appropriate for some people, particularly those taking higher doses. Anyone with chronic health conditions, especially kidney or liver disease, should discuss long-term use with their healthcare provider.
Final Verdict
For most people, L-Lysine Gummies 1000mg offers the best combination of efficacy, convenience, and value—the full clinical dose in an easy-to-take format that promotes daily consistency. The gummy format eliminates the compliance issues that plague pill-based supplements, and consistent daily intake is where lysine delivers its best results.
If budget is your primary concern, NOW Foods Double Strength L-Lysine 1000mg delivers pharmaceutical-grade quality at the lowest per-serving cost from a trusted manufacturer with over 50 years in the business. The large bottle sizes offer excellent long-term value.
For cold sore sufferers specifically, Quantum Health SuperLysine+ 1500mg provides the comprehensive formula targeting outbreak prevention with its high-dose lysine and immune-boosting herbs. The company’s four-decade focus on lysine products shows in the formula’s effectiveness.
Those with sensitivities should choose Pure Encapsulations L-Lysine for its hypoallergenic, minimal-ingredient approach—often the only option that works for people who react to fillers and additives in other supplements.
Athletes and health professionals may prefer Thorne Lysine for its practitioner-grade quality and sport certifications—when your body is your livelihood, the extra quality assurance matters.
Whatever your choice, remember that lysine works best with consistent daily use over time. Choose a format you’ll actually take every day, and give it at least four to six weeks before evaluating results.
