Acetyl-L-carnitine, or ALCAR, is a nutritional supplement that is an acetylated form of the amino acid L-carnitine. L-carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid that is produced by your body and serves various functions. Once ALCAR is ingested, your body will absorb it and remove the acetyl group, leaving only the amino acid to exert its effects on your body. ALCAR may improve some of the symptoms associated with the developmental disorder autism. However, there is no cure for autism, and you should consult your physician before using ALCAR for the treatment of any condition.
Carnitine Deficiency
The Linus Pauling Institute states that people with genetic disorders, such as autism, may experience a secondary carnitine deficiency, which is characterized by very low levels of carnitine in the blood. According to a 2004 study published in the "Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders," children with autism are more likely to have a natural deficiency in L-carnitine than healthy individuals. The deficiency is likely caused by a dysfunction in mitochondria, the part of the cell that regulates energy production.
Cell Function
L-carnitine supplementation may increase mitochondrial function, according to a 2003 study published in the "Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences." Mitochondrial dysfunction is related to autism spectrum disorders, and supplementation with carnitine may be beneficial in people suffering from autism. Research studies regarding the use of nutritional supplements for the treatment of both autism spectrum disorder and mitochondrial dysfunction are limited. However, a 2011 study published by the journal "Molecular Psychiatry" suggests that carnitine supplementation improves symptoms associated with both autism and mitochondrial dysfunction, although more research is needed.
Seizures
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, many people with autism also suffer from epileptic seizures. This may be due to the toxicity of ammonia, which is elevated in people with a secondary carnitine deficiency. In a study published in the journal "Biochemical Pharmacology," researchers found that L-carnitine has a protective effect against ammonia toxicity and can reduce the risk of having a seizure.
Recommendations
Always consult your physician before using any nutritional supplement for the treatment of autism. Acetyl-L-carnitine is not meant to replace traditional treatments and therapy for autism spectrum disorders, including antiseizure medications and psychological therapy. The Linus Pauling Institute recommends taking acetyl-L-carnitine in daily doses of 500 to 1,000 mg; depending on your condition, your physician may recommend a different amount.
References
- "Nutrition For Health, Fitness, and Sport"; Melvin H. Williams; 2002
- "Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences"; Neuroprotective Effects of L-carnintine in Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction; Z.K. Binienda; May 2003
- "Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders"; Relative Carnitine Deficiency in Autism; P.A. Filipek et al.; December 2004
- "Linus Pauling Institute"; L-carnitine; Jane Higdon; 2002
- "Biochemical Pharmacology"; Comparison of the Effects of L-Carnitine, D-Carnitine, and Acetyl-L-Carnitine on the Neurotoxicity of Ammonia; M. Matsuoka and H. Iqisu; July 1993
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Autism Fact Sheet
Member Comments