That muscle pump during a workout, when your veins pop and you feel unstoppable, is more than just a rush. It’s driven by nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that boosts blood flow, delivers nutrients to your muscles, and enhances performance.
Two key ingredients stand out in pre-workout supplements for this effect: Citrulline Malate and Nitrosigine. Both are designed to amplify pumps and support better workouts, but they work in unique ways. Let’s break down how these nitric oxide boosters compare and what they can do for your training.
This guide covers the science, benefits, and differences between Citrulline Malate and Nitrosigine. Whether you’re new to lifting or fine-tuning your pre-workout routine, understanding these ingredients helps you get the most out of every session.
Check out Bucked Up’s pre-workout lineup to find formulations with these ingredients tailored to your goals, balancing energy, focus, and endurance with great flavor.

Why Nitric Oxide Boosts Your Workout Performance
Nitric oxide plays a vital role in widening blood vessels, a process called vasodilation. This allows more blood, oxygen, and nutrients to reach your muscles during exercise while clearing out waste products faster. The result is not just a visible pump but also better performance, less fatigue, quicker recovery between sets, and potential long-term muscle growth.
Ingredients that increase nitric oxide levels are common in pre-workouts because of these practical benefits. They work through different pathways, either by supplying the building blocks for NO or improving how those components are used in your body. Knowing how these pathways differ can guide you in picking the right supplement for your needs.
Unpacking Citrulline Malate: A Reliable Pump Enhancer
How Citrulline Malate Increases Nitric Oxide Levels
Citrulline Malate boosts nitric oxide by converting into L-arginine, which your body then turns into NO through an enzyme. This conversion process makes Citrulline more effective than taking L-arginine directly since it avoids breakdown in the liver and increases arginine availability in your bloodstream. The result is a steady supply of material for NO production.
This pathway involves the urea cycle, where citrulline travels to the kidneys, becomes arginine, and then supports NO creation throughout your body. Studies confirm that Citrulline Malate consistently raises arginine levels and nitric oxide compared to other options. It’s a solid, proven method for better blood flow.
Extra Perks from Malate in Your Performance
Beyond nitric oxide, the malate part of Citrulline Malate adds value. Malate supports energy production during exercise by aiding ATP creation and reducing lactate buildup. This means less muscle burn and more stamina during tough sets.
Malate contributes to the citric acid cycle, helping your cells generate energy efficiently. It also clears metabolic byproducts that cause fatigue. So, Citrulline Malate not only improves blood flow but also fuels your workout on a deeper level, making it a versatile choice.
Proven Benefits and Ideal Dosing for Citrulline Malate
Citrulline Malate delivers measurable results. It enhances muscle performance and recovery by improving blood flow and energy processes. Studies show gains in training volume, reduced soreness, and better recovery, benefiting both strength and endurance athletes.
For best results, stick to a dose of 6 to 8 grams before your workout. This range is widely tested in research and balances effectiveness with comfort. It’s a practical amount for most users aiming to maximize their pump and performance.
Exploring Nitrosigine: A Modern Nitric Oxide Solution
How Nitrosigine Drives Nitric Oxide Production
Nitrosigine offers a direct approach to boosting nitric oxide by delivering arginine in a highly absorbable form. Known as arginine silicate inositol, it raises blood arginine levels more effectively than standard arginine supplements. This leads to improved blood flow via NO synthesis.
Its unique structure, combining arginine with silicate and inositol, enhances absorption. More arginine reaches your system compared to traditional forms, providing a reliable source for NO creation with fewer steps than citrulline-based options. This efficiency sets Nitrosigine apart.
Absorption Edge and Impact of Nitrosigine
Nitrosigine’s design focuses on better bioavailability. It’s formulated to increase nitric oxide more effectively than regular arginine by elevating plasma levels quickly. This means you can achieve results with smaller amounts.
For athletes with extended workouts, Nitrosigine shows promise. Tests indicate a rapid rise in NO markers after use, supporting benefits during training sessions. Its quick action makes it a convenient choice for many.
Performance Gains and Dosing for Nitrosigine
Nitrosigine matches Citrulline Malate in boosting blood flow during exercise. Both ingredients effectively increase vasodilation and muscle perfusion. Its primary benefit is a strong pump effect through improved circulation.
The effective dose for Nitrosigine is around 1.5 grams per serving. This amount is backed by studies for safety and results. The lower dose makes it easier to include in pre-workout blends without overloading the formula.
Comparing Citrulline Malate and Nitrosigine: Key Differences
Different Paths to Nitric Oxide Boosts
Citrulline Malate works indirectly by converting to arginine in the kidneys before supporting NO production, a process that takes time but ensures long-lasting effects. Nitrosigine, however, delivers arginine more directly with high absorption, aiming for quicker results through enhanced bioavailability.
Timing plays a role here. Citrulline Malate typically needs 30 to 60 minutes to hit peak effectiveness, while Nitrosigine can show effects sooner due to its efficient delivery. Both sustain benefits through most workouts, but your pre-workout timing might influence your choice.
Endurance and Muscle Support Comparison
For sustained efforts, Citrulline Malate has an edge with malate supporting energy production and clearing lactate, reducing muscle fatigue in long or intense sessions.
Nitrosigine focuses more on blood flow, improving oxygen delivery, but lacking direct metabolic support. Your workout style might dictate which fits best.
Timing and Effect Duration Insights
Citrulline Malate takes 45 to 90 minutes to fully kick in as it converts to arginine, with effects lasting several hours. Nitrosigine acts faster, often within 15 to 30 minutes, peaking around 1 to 2 hours after intake. Both cover typical workout lengths of 60 to 120 minutes, so plan based on when you take your pre-workout.
Choosing the Right Booster for Your Needs
Both Citrulline Malate and Nitrosigine are backed by science to improve pumps and training. Pick Citrulline Malate if you value extensive research, want energy support, and can take it 30 to 60 minutes before lifting. Go for Nitrosigine if a smaller 1.5-gram dose and faster onset suit your routine better. It’s about matching your goals and timing.
Quick Comparison: Citrulline Malate vs. Nitrosigine
|
Feature |
Citrulline Malate (CM) |
Nitrosigine (ASI) |
|
Main Action |
Converts to arginine for NO |
Direct arginine for NO synthesis |
|
Absorption |
Avoids liver breakdown for high arginine |
Better than standard arginine for blood levels |
|
Typical Dose |
6-8 grams pre-workout |
1.5 grams per serving |
|
Extra Benefits |
Malate boosts energy, clears lactate |
Focuses on blood flow support |
Why Combine Both? Bucked Up’s Dual-Action Strategy
Instead of picking one, combining Citrulline Malate and Nitrosigine can target multiple nitric oxide pathways for a stronger effect. Bucked Up’s Mother Bucker pre-workout uses Nitrosigine alongside L-Citrulline to amplify pumps, blending immediate and sustained benefits for a comprehensive boost.
This approach allows effective doses of each without overloading on one ingredient. It’s a smart way to enhance blood flow from different angles. Explore Bucked Up’s full range to see how these combinations can elevate your training experience.

Common Questions About Nitric Oxide Boosters Answered
Is 6-8 Grams of Citrulline Malate Always Necessary?
While 6 to 8 grams is the standard dose in studies for consistent benefits, some might feel effects at lower amounts, especially with absorption aids like AstraGin in Bucked Up products. Sticking to the researched range ensures reliable boosts in arginine levels and performance for most users.
How Fast Do Nitrosigine and Citrulline Malate Work?
Nitrosigine often shows pump effects within 15 to 30 minutes due to quick absorption, while Citrulline Malate typically needs 45 to 90 minutes to peak. Both last through standard 60 to 120-minute workouts. Factors like food intake or metabolism can slightly adjust these timelines.
Does Combining Both Ingredients Improve Pumps?
Pairing Citrulline Malate and Nitrosigine can enhance results by using different nitric oxide pathways. Bucked Up’s Mother Bucker formulation includes Nitrosigine and L-Citrulline for a well-rounded pump effect, taking advantage of immediate and longer-lasting benefits from both.
Are There Side Effects to Watch For?
At recommended doses, both ingredients are generally safe. Citrulline Malate might cause mild stomach upset at higher amounts if taken without food. Nitrosigine, with its smaller dose, rarely causes issues. If you have health concerns, check with a doctor before starting any supplement.
Can You Build Tolerance to These Boosters?
Tolerance risk is low with Citrulline Malate due to its natural conversion process. Nitrosigine’s design helps maintain its impact compared to basic arginine. Staying hydrated, eating well, and avoiding overuse can keep effects steady. A break or switching formulas may help if the benefits seem to fade.
Maximize Your Pump with Smart Choices and Bucked Up
Citrulline Malate and Nitrosigine both offer solid, research-supported ways to enhance your workouts through nitric oxide production. Citrulline Malate provides lasting effects and energy support, while Nitrosigine focuses on quick, efficient blood flow boosts. Your decision depends on workout timing, training focus, and personal response.
Bucked Up crafts pre-workouts with transparent, effective dosing of these ingredients. From the accessible standard formula to the potent Mother Bucker blend, their products aim to optimize your results. Browse Bucked Up’s selection to find the right fit and power up your next session.