Citrulline Malate
Performance
Also known as: CM
B
Grade B💊 6-8 g citrulline malate (2:1 ratio)🎯 4 primary uses🔗 2 synergies⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upFitness+50 pts
Overview
Citrulline bound to malic acid. The malic acid may add endurance benefits through Krebs cycle support.
Primary Uses
EndurancePumpsRecoveryBlood flow
Frequently Asked About Citrulline Malate
How much Citrulline Malate should I take?
The typical effective range is 6-8 g citrulline malate (2:1 ratio). Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Citrulline Malate?
30-60 min before exercise. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Citrulline Malate with food?
Optional.
Does Citrulline Malate interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include BP meds, nitrates - caution. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Citrulline Malate.
What does Citrulline Malate pair well with?
Citrulline Malate stacks well with Beetroot and Beta-alanine — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Citrulline Malate?
Citrulline Malate should be avoided or used with caution by people with None. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Citrulline Malate?
Most people tolerate Citrulline Malate well. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset at high doses. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
6-8 g citrulline malate (2:1 ratio)
Timing
30-60 min before exercise
With food
Optional
Duration
Safe long-term
Special Populations
Athletes wanting pumps/endurance
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Citrulline Malateyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Search Citrulline Malate research
Mechanism of Action
- • Citrulline converts to arginine for NO
- • Malate is Krebs cycle intermediate
- • May reduce muscle soreness
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade B
Popular pre-workout ingredient
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • None
Contraindications
- • None
Common Side Effects
- • GI upset at high doses
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Consult healthcare provider
Liver & Kidney Notes
Safe
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • BP meds, nitrates - caution
🧪 Supplements
- • Works with beetroot, arginine
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • No interactions
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Avoid Combining With
None
Best Goal Synergies
Pre-workoutEndurance
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • 2:1 ratio
- • Adequate dose
Standardization Markers
2:1 citrulline:malate ratio
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
- • 2:1 ratio is standard
- • Popular pre-workout ingredient
Tags
performancenitric oxideendurance
Top Products with Citrulline Malate
Highest-scored catalog products containing Citrulline Malate, ranked by our scoring engine.
Browse all Citrulline Malate products →
Related Guides
In-depth guides covering Citrulline Malate — protocols, comparisons, and use cases.
More in Performance
Other ingredients in the Performance category.
Agmatine Sulfate
Arginine metabolite with nitric oxide and pain-modulating effects. Enhances pumps.
Arachidonic Acid (ARA)
Omega-6 fatty acid that amplifies exercise-induced muscle signaling. Increases training response but also inflammation.
BCAAs
A branched-chain amino acid blend in a 2:1:1 leucine-to-isoleucine-to-valine ratio, formulated in instantized (micronized) form for improved solubility. BCAAs support muscle protein synthesis and may reduce exercise-induced fatigue, though whole protein sources provide comparable benefits at lower cost.
Beetroot / Nitrates
Dietary nitrates converted to nitric oxide for improved endurance and blood flow. Can enhance exercise efficiency.
Beta-Alanine
Increases muscle carnosine for buffering acid during high-intensity exercise. Delays fatigue in 1-4 minute efforts.
Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB)
Exogenous ketone body that can elevate blood ketone levels. Used for energy, cognitive function, and supporting ketogenic diets.
Last reviewed: September 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, September). Citrulline Malate — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/citrulline-malate
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.