Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Also indexed as: Acetylcarnitine, ALC, L-Acetyl-Carnitine
Acetyl-L-carnitine is similar in form to the amino acid L-carnitine and also has some similar functions, such
as being involved in the metabolism of food into energy. The acetyl group that is part of
acetyl-L-carnitine contributes to the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which
is required for mental function.
Where is it found?
Acetyl-L-carnitine is a molecule that occurs naturally in the brain, liver, and kidney. It
is also available as a dietary supplement.
Acetyl-L-carnitine has
been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the
individual health concern for complete information):
Who is likely to be deficient?
Acetyl-L-carnitine levels may decrease with advancing age. However, because it is not an
essential nutrient, true deficiencies do not occur.
How much is usually taken?
Most research involving acetyl-L-carnitine has used 500 mg three times per day, though some
research has used double this amount.1
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Side effects from taking acetyl-L-carnitine are uncommon, although skin rash, increased
appetite, nausea, vomiting, agitation, and body odor have been reported in people taking
acetyl-L-carnitine.2 3
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with acetyl-L-carnitine. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
References
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1. No authors listed. Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Altern Med Rev
1999;4:438–41 [review].
2. Thal LJ, Carta A, Clarke WR, et al. A 1-year multicenter
placebo-controlled study of acetyl-L-carnitine in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Neurology 1996;47:705–11.
3. Rai G, Wright G, Scott L, et al. Double-blind, placebo controlled
study of acetyl-L-carnitine in patients with Alzheimer’s dementia. Curr Med Res
Opin 1990;11:638–47.
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