Acetyl-L-Carnitine

Also indexed as: Acetylcarnitine, ALC, L-Acetyl-Carnitine

What is it?

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):

Science Ratings	Health Concerns
	Age-related cognitive decline
	Macular degeneration (in combination with fish oil and coenzyme Q10) Alzheimer’s disease Cerebellar ataxia, degenerative Depression (for elderly people) Down’s syndrome Erectile dysfunction (in combination with L-carnitine) Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes
	Amenorrhoea Male infertility Peripheral neuropathy
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

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 odour 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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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.

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