Product Info
About This Product
- Essential amino acid delivery
- Supports energy, focus, and muscle recovery
- Promotes nitric oxide production
- Caffeine derived from natural sources
- Fruit Fusion flavor
Looking for the perfect pre-workout boost or anytime pick-me-up? ESSENTIAL AMIN.O. ENERGY by Optimum Nutrition supports muscle recovery before, during, and after exercise with 5g of micronized free-form amino acids—plus 100mg of caffeine to promote energy and focus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are essential amino acids?
Essential amino acids (EAAs) are amino acids that your body can’t produce enough of on its own, including leucine, isoleucine, valine, histidine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, and tryptophan. EAAs support muscle growth and recovery.
What are micronized free-form amino acids?
Micronized free-form amino acids are single amino acids that are already in a pre-digested form for faster absorption by the body.
Why is nitric oxide important?
Nitric oxide plays a key role in exercise endurance because it’s a vasodilator. A vasodilator is a substance that supports the dilation of blood vessels for increased blood flow.
Directions
Mix two scoops of ESSENTIAL AMINO ENERGY in 10-12 oz of cold water. FOR AN AMINO ACID BOOST: Consume one or more servings first thing in the morning and/or between meals. FOR PRE-WORKOUT ENERGY: Take 1-3 servings 20-30 minutes before training. FOR POST-WORKOUT RECOVERY: Take 1-2 servings immediately after training. TIPS: ESSENTIAL AMINO ENERGY contains 50 mg of caffeine per scoop, so do not consume after 5:00 PM if you have difficulty sleeping. ESSENTIAL AMINO ENERGY also contains beta-Alanine and may cause a temporary tingling sensation on your skin. This is normal. With continued use, the intensity of the sensation will decrease or disappear.
Warning
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. Check with a qualified health care professional before taking this product if you are pregnant or nursing a baby, under 18 yearsof age, have any known or suspected medical conditions, and/or if you are taking any prescription or OTC medications. PHENYLKETONURICS: CONTAINS PHENYLALANINE ALLERGEN INFORMATION: CONTAINS SOY (LECITHIN)
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Scoops
Number of Servings: 30 Servings
Amount Per Serving
% Daily Value
Calories
N/A*
Total Carbohydrate
1%
Other Ingredients:
Amino Blend (5 GM): (Micronized Taurine, Micronized L-Glutamine, Micronized L-Arginine, Micronized L-Leucine, CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine, Micronized Citrulline, Micronized L-Isoleucine, Micronized L-Valine, Micronized L-Tyrosine, Micronized L-Histidine, Micronized L-Lysine, Micronized L-Phenylalanine, Micronized L-Threonine, Micronized L-Methionine). Energy Blend (160 MG): (Caffeine (from Green Tea), Green Tea Extract (Camellia sinensis)(leaf)(standardized for EGCG), Green Coffee Extract). Other Ingredients: Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Inulin, Beet Color, Tartaric Acid, Silicon Dioxide, Calcium Silicate, Gum Blend (Cellulose Gum, Xanthan Gum, Carrageenan),Sucralose, Lecithin, FD&C Yellow #5&6.
Specifications
Brand:
Optimum Nutrition
Form:
Powder
Flavor:
Fruit Fusion
Serving Size:
2 Scoops
Number of Servings:
30 Servings
Price per Serving:
($1.00 / serving)
Product Weight:
13 OZ
Item # :
OP-1072 / 1765379
Who Might Benefit From This Product
- Active Gym Goers: Ideal for those requiring a pre-workout energy boost. This powder supports focus and endurance, helping to maximize performance during exercise sessions.
- Busy Professionals: Perfect for individuals with demanding schedules who need a convenient source of sustained energy. The blend promotes focus without the crash, supporting productive days.
- Fitness Enthusiasts: Suitable for those seeking to enhance muscle recovery. The combination of amino acids helps to support muscle growth and minimize post-workout soreness.
- Nutrient Seekers: Designed for individuals looking to supplement their daily amino acid intake. This powder provides a comprehensive profile of essential amino acids to promote overall well-being.
- Energy Seekers in a Caloric Deficit: Beneficial for those maintaining a caloric deficit while needing a boost. The product offers sufficient caffeine from natural sources, aiding in energy and focus.
Product Reviews
41 Ratings
Would you recommend?
1-10 of 41 Reviews
Apr 25, 2025
Fruit flavor sucks
Just had to come here to give the fruit fusion flavor a mid review because of the specific flavor. It tastes like medicine to me. All other flavors I've bought are superior.
Gender
Male
Age Range
25-34
Would you recommend?:No
Aug 31, 2023
Keeps you on task
Great stuff
Location
Rockwall, US
Gender
Male
Age Range
45-54
Fitness Level
Advanced
Would you recommend?:Yes
Purchased on Jul 24, 2023
Nov 27, 2022
The Best!
Not only a great pre workout, but I sip it throughout my day for a steady caffeine boost without the high cost & questionable additives of a lot of energy drinks. Fruit Fusion is my favorite flavor.
Location
Kansas City, MO, US
Gender
Male
Age Range
65+
Fitness Level
Intermediate
Would you recommend?:Yes
Purchased on Feb 11, 2020
Jan 8, 2021
Loving my lot Iotion
Helps me get going in the early morning either to work out or hi to work.
Location
Ashland, VA, US
Gender
Female
Age Range
55-64
Would you recommend?:Yes
Purchased on Nov 30, 2020
Dec 4, 2019
Use this as a daily boost & as pre-workout
I love using amino energy as a morning pick me up instead of coffee. I sit at a desk in front of a computer all day, and usually get so tired by 2pm. I've tried other Aminos and this is by far my favorite. Solid flavor, no weird aftertaste and it blends very smooth. I'm slightly disappointed in the sweetness of the peach white tea flavor, but will definitely be trying others once I use this up! I'd definitely recommend this as both a pre-workout drink and a morning energy booster.
Location
STREETSBORO, OH, US
Gender
Female
Age Range
18-24
Would you recommend?:Yes
Sep 9, 2019
Great product
I love this amino, I drink it every day
Location
Madison height , MI, US
Gender
Female
Age Range
45-54
Purchased on Aug 10, 2019
Apr 24, 2019
Great product
Love it . Really works and great tasting .
Purchased on Mar 6, 2019
Apr 17, 2018
Great flavor
The taste is great!
Location
CA, US
Gender
Female
Age Range
25-34
Would you recommend?:Yes
Purchased on Apr 2, 2018
Aug 12, 2016
Best pre-workout on the market
I have tried other pre-workout brands and Optimum nailed it with Amino Energy. It gives me energy to get through my workout and then some. No jitters and it tastes great.
Location
Rochester, NY
Would you recommend?:Yes
Apr 11, 2016
Definitely would buy this again
My metabolism is already pretty efficient, so usual pre-workouts don't really work for me. This in the other hand gives me that little boost in the morning to get my whole workout done efficiently. Have not used it for running or swimming yet. It tastes great, mixes easily (without blender bottle) forget its even a supplement sometimes.
Location
Arlington, tx
Would you recommend?:Yes
Disclaimer:
Product reviews are provided for informational purposes only and reflect solely the views and opinions expressed by the contributors and not those of the Vitamin Shoppe. Vitamin Shoppe does not verify or endorse any claims made in these reviews.Please read the full product reviews disclaimer.
Q&A
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Why did you choose this?
hi are the essential amino energy drinks vegan friendly? no animal ingredients?
Best Answer: Ingredients: Malic Acid, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Tartaric Acid, Silicon Dioxide, Calcium Citrate, Calcium Silicate, Citric Acid, Sucralose, Gum Blend (Cellulose Gum, Xanthan Gum, Carrageenan), Lecithin, FDC Blue #2, FDC Red #40, Inulin. Allergen Information: Contains Soy (Lecithin) Total Caffeine from all sources is equal to 50mg/9g serving.
How many ounces of water (or juice) is needed per scoop?
This will depend on what you want. I read the label. If I'm doing a pre-workout, I use 4 scoops to 24 oz of water. If I'm drinking it after a workout, I use 2 scoops to 24 oz of water. Helps me with drinking water by adding flavor without sugar.
Directions are: 2 scoops in 10-12 oz of cold water.
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I have tried several other products and many have caused a tingly and quite itchy feeling on my skin. Does this product cause that tingly or itchy feeling?
It is the beta- Alanine in these products that cause the tingling sensation. If you read under "Directions" the 2nd to the last sentence states that it contains BA. Personally the sensation is not as extreme as other products I've used. I love this product because it tastes delicious and is a fine powder that mixes well so none of the beta-Alanine "chunks" in the bottom of my shaker.
I also like that there are several options/measurements for this product to regulate how much "energy" you get.
No, this product doesn't give you a niacin flush or anything like it. It's mainly aminos and green tea - all good stuff.
Yes, this product definitely caused some tingling in my skin. I don't believe it ever became itchy though.
Yes sometimes
It is because of the B vitamins in the product.
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do i have to mix it right before i drink this ? i dont want to bring the bottle to work then mix it up..id like to mix in am and drink before my workout around 330 .
What I do usually is just put a scoop or two or however much amount into an empty bottle and just bring that with me and fill it up and mix it whenever the time arises. But if you really want to mix it before work then it should be fine that way but if you can put it in a fridge then that would be recommended.
I think it would be fine to pre-mix, just be sure to re-shake it (the powder will settle the longer it sits) and maybe add some ice to it! Blender Bottle also makes a shaker with a powder storage compartment at the bottom of it. You can measure out in the morning and mix when ready!
No you don't need to mix and drink immediately, however, the contents do tend to settle as with most enery drinks. Just give your bottle a good shake and you'll be good to go. Hope this helps!
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Does this product make anyone else really hungry after you use it. I will eat right after a workout and I will still be hungry, is this normal?
Most likely the fats from the product start the digestion process and your body gets hungry. It has the same effect as eating an appetizer before a meal. Seems normal to me. I hope this helps.
I have never felt super hungry after my post workout meal. As long as you drink plenty of water and your meal satisfies your protein and carb intake, you should not feel super hungry.
I love the amino and it gives me great energy with little crash. I usually have a protein shake after my workout which is pretty filling so I don't experience abnormal hunger.
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Is this product Gluten free?
Yes this product is gluten free, however it does contain soy...just in case your sensitive to soy.
I do not believe an amino is a gluten, but you may want to research the definition of Gluten
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How much sugar/ sugar alternatives does this product contain per serve?
It does not say - however sucralose (I assume that is a sugar substitute ) is one of the last ingredients - I love this product! I add it to my water, iced tea, and health drink every day for years now!
The label does not indicate the amount per serving but Sucralose is listed under "Other Ingredients." You try contacting the manufacturer to get this info.
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Does this contain creatine ???
No, no creatine. This is an "energy" type drink.
The great thing about Vitaminshoppe's website is that you can actually click on the item and see the "nutrition" label on for that item. If you're looking for Creatine, check on other items. Then click on the "supplemental facts". If that contains Creatine (or what ever you're looking for, the label will say.
I have been using this for about 2 years and like it. The scooper os small so you can adjust your servings well. Take care
No
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I have a cardiovascular disease but I use the mass gainer from optimum nutrition and would this affect me for example would it give me a heart attack?
This product contains caffeine, which has been shown to impair blood flow to the heart muscle in patients with cardiovascular disease. I would consult with your doctor before taking this product.
You need to ask your doctor that question.
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Is this product FDA approved?
I cant say for sure but I do know that this product as well as many of the other supplement products do not need fda approval to be sold and distributed if you are wondering if its healthy and good for you I can say that its one of the healthiest pre workouts and is healthier than all of the diet drinks and zero calorie drinks the fda has approved of
very few health related products are FDA approved. You rely on years of research by the companies themselves. So bottom line is pick a reliable company that can be trusted to deliver what is promised on the label. Do your own research on line.
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Disclaimer:
Product reviews are provided for informational purposes only and reflect solely the views and opinions expressed by the contributors and not those of the Vitamin Shoppe. Vitamin Shoppe does not verify or endorse any claims made in these reviews.Please read the full product reviews disclaimer.
Shipping Info
FREE STANDARD SHIPPING on orders of $45 or more
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- Ship to an address within the United States (including U.S. territories)
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About Optimum Nutrition
Optimum NUTRITION has been trusted to provide the highest quality in post-workout recovery, pre-workout energy, and on-the-go sports nutrition products for over 35 years and in more than 100 countries. We are obsessed with quality. We sweat the details, scrutinizing every ingredient in every product that we make. We hold ourselves to the highest production standard, all so you can unlock your body’s full potential.
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better caffeine alternative
Essential amino energy is a great energy, spark to start my day and propel me throughout my workout.
It has a great taste, and gives a nice energy
Adds a splash to just plain water