Acetyl L-carnitine is a substance found naturally in the body. It is also a component of some dietary supplements and is used to treat of a number of health conditions. Like most supplements, acetyl L- carnitine carries a risk of side effects including bladder infections, according to the University of Washington.
Acetyl L-carnitine
Acetyl L-carnitine, commonly referred to as ALC, is found in the liver, brain and kidneys. In supplement form, ALC has been used to help slow the progression of memory disorders including Alzheimer's disease and other age-related memory issues. The University of Washington also indicates ALC may be beneficial in the treatment of HIV and nerve pain that is commonly associated with diabetes.
Reported Side Effects
There are a number of different side effects associated with the use of ALC. The University of Washington indicates that not all individuals will experience side effects. It is important to check with your doctor if you are on any other medications or if you experience problems that are out of the ordinary. Reported side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, bladder infection, bladder irritation, body odors, congestion, rash and trouble sleeping.
Bladder Infections
Also known as cystitis or urinary tract infection, bladder infections are bacterial in nature and affect your bladder as well as your kidneys, ureters and urethra. Symptoms of a bladder infection include painful urination, burning during urination, abdominal pain, pelvic pain, rectal pain, cloudy urine, blood-colored urine, chills, fever, nausea, vomiting, the constant urge to urinate and passing little urine at a time. Urinary tract infections need to be treated by a physician. A doctor will take your medial history, perform a physical exam and test your urine for bacteria. An antibiotic is commonly prescribed for the treatment of bladder infections. Your doctor may also prescribe medication for pain and recommend that you drink plenty of fluids. The continuation of ALC will be up to your doctor.
Bladder Infection Risk Factors
There are other factors that may increase your chances of developing a bladder infection when taking acetyl L-carnitine. Being female and sexually active can increase your chances of developing a bladder infection. A new sexual partner, having multiple sexual partners and certain birth controls can increase the risk of developing a bladder infections. Bladder infections may also be the result of urinating infrequently, using a catheter to urinate, having a pre-existing bladder condition or blockages in your urinary system -- such as a tumor. Bladder infections are a common infection that are rarely dangerous when treated. Untreated bladder infections can lead to kidney infections.
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