The effect of L-glutamine and sodium intake in cystinuric patients.

Four patients with cystinuria were studied to assess the effect of L-glutamine and sodium on the urinary excretion of dibasic amino acids. L-Glutamine 2.1 g/d and sodium about 300 mmol/d were given for three weeks, after which L-glutamine 2.1 g/d and sodium about 150 mmol/d were given for a further three weeks. L-Glutamine reduced the excretion of dibasic amino acids in one patient with both sodium regimens, but not significantly. In the remaining three patients no reduction was observed.