Acetyl-L-carnitine is a form of the compound L-carnitine. While carnitine is both synthesized within the body and available in high concentrations in certain foods, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that some scientific studies indicate additional supplementation with L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine may be effective at treating and preventing a variety of medical conditions. However, more research is needed to determine the long-term safety of acetyl-L-carnitine use. Before using acetyl-L-carnitine for any health problem, speak to your doctor about the possible side effects and dangers.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Acetyl-L-carnitine is the acetylated form of carnitine, a compound that is essential for mitochondrial energy metabolism. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, the terms carnitine, L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine are often used interchangeably to refer to the same basic compound. L-carnitine is produced in the kidneys and liver from the amino acid lysine. It is also found in high concentrations in dairy products, red meat, poultry, fish, soy products like tempeh and peanut butter. Carnitine deficiency is rare -- the National Academy of Sciences has not established a recommended daily allowance for carnitine since most people consume and synthesize more than they need. However, people suffering from genetic or digestive system disorders may require carnitine supplementation. In addition, carnitine supplements may help prevent heart failure and heart attack, slow dementia onset and decrease the symptoms of peripheral vascular disease. Carnitine proponents also say it can increase athletic endurance and stimulate weight loss, but there isn't any reputable scientific evidence to support these claims.
Possible Side Effects
Supplementing with acetyl-L-carnitine can cause a number of side effects, including an unusual body odor, high blood pressure, rashes, abdominal cramps, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea and an increased appetite. In rare instances, supplementation can cause seizures or extreme muscle weakness. Avoid using any form of carnitine supplement if you suffer from kidney or liver disease, diabetes or hypertension. Carnitine can interfere with the proper function of certain medications, including doxorubicin, isotretinoin, valproic acid and acenocoumarol.
Recommendations
Oregon State University's Linus Pauling Institute reports that using 500 to 1,000 mg of acetyl-L-carnitine daily is generally considered safe for healthy adults. In its acetylated form, carnitine may be easier for the body to absorb from supplements, and after the acetyl groups have been detached from the carnitine, they may assist in the synthesis of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. However, consuming more than 3 g a day may be harmful and there is no evidence indicating that long-term use of high carnitine doses is safe or effective. Speak to your doctor before using any form of carnitine supplement and do not give any carnitine-containing supplements to children unless you have been instructed to do so by their pediatrician as a carnitine deficiency treatment.
Considerations
The only carnitine supplements that have been approved for a medical use are those prescribed for diagnosed carnitine deficiencies. Therefore, any over-the-counter acetyl-L-carnitine supplements you may purchase have not been regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and have not been checked for purity or safety. The amount -- and type -- of carnitine within these supplements has also not been confirmed. Do not self-treat any health condition with carnitine and do not use carnitine supplements in place of prescription medication.
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