l-ornithine l-aspartate (Merz)

L-ornithine L-aspartate (LOLA) is a stable salt of the natural amino acids L-ornithine and L-aspartic acid, primarily used in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and other hyperammonemic states associated with liver disease. LOLA acts as a metabolic substrate that enhances ammonia detoxification through two primary pathways: the urea cycle in periportal hepatocytes and glutamine synthesis in perivenous hepatocytes and skeletal muscle. By providing ornithine and aspartate, the drug facilitates the conversion of toxic ammonia into urea and glutamine, thereby reducing systemic ammonia levels and improving neurocognitive function in patients with liver cirrhosis. It is available in both oral (granules) and intravenous formulations and is being investigated for broader applications in liver disorders such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Brand names

Hepa-MerzHepasolOrnithine-Aspartate

Other names

LOLAornithine aspartateL-ornithine-L-aspartatel-ornithine + l-aspartate