Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a behavioral disorder characterized by restlessness, impulsivity and hyperactivity. It might also cause learning and sleeping problems. According to the U.K. National Health Service's website, NHS Choices, ADHD most commonly affects school-aged children, but adds that, worldwide, 2 percent of adults are also affected. There is no cure for ADHD, but psychological therapies and stimulant medicines help to control symptoms. Acetyl-L-carnitine might also play a role in the treatment of ADHD, although evidence of its effectiveness is limited. Seek medical advice before using it.
Properties and Uses
Acetyl-L-carnitine, also simply known as carnitine or L-carnitine, is produced by the body and helps to convert fats into energy. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that it is sometimes used to help treat a number of medical conditions including heart conditions, diabetic neuropathy, memory impairment and erectile dysfunction and may also boost athletic performance. An article published in "Current Psychiatry Reports" in July 2011 notes that carnitine might also play a role in the inattentive aspect of ADHD, but adds that evidence to prove this is limited.
Research Findings
Evidence to support the use of acetyl-L-carnitine in the treatment of ADHD is weak. The results of a clinical trial to determine whether carnitine can boost the effects of ADHD medicines, published in the June 2011 issue of "Child Psychiatry and Human Development," show that carnitine does enhance ADHD treatment. Clinical research findings published in the December 2007 issue of the "Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology" show that although acetyl-L-carnitine appears safe, it had no affect on ADHD patients. However, the authors add that it may be beneficial for individuals with inattentive-type ADHD.
Sources and Administration
Dietary sources of carnitine include red meats, fish, asparagus, tempeh and poultry. It is available as a dietary supplement over the counter in capsules or tablets and can be administered intravenously, but only by a doctor. Guidance regarding a suitable dosage for ADHD is lacking, although your doctor may be able to advise you on this. Don't give carnitine to a child with ADHD without first getting medical clearance.
Safety Considerations
Carnitine may cause side effects, but these are generally only mild and include an increased appetite, body odor, rash and diarrhea. Carnitine may not be suitable for some people. Get medical advice before using carnitine if you have liver or kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension or peripheral vascular disease. It might also interact with other medicines you are taking, including the acne medicine, isotretinoin, and the anti-seizure drug, valproic acid.
References
- NHS Choices; Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); May 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Carnitine (L-Carnitine); March 2009
- "Current Psychiatry Reports"; Dietary and Nutritional Treatments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Current Research Support and Recommendations for Practitioners; E.A. Hurt, et al.; July 2011
- "Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology"; Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Multi-Site, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial; L.E. Arnold, et al.; December 2007
- "Child Psychiatry and Human Development"; Acetyl-L-Carnitine as an Adjunctive Therapy in the Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents: A Placebo-Controlled Trial; S.H. Abbasi, et al.; June 2011
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