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> Nutritional and Dietary Supplements > Acetyl-L-Carnitine
ACETYL-L-CARNITINEVisit The Healthy Living Bookshelf:
What does it do? 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. Several double-blind clinical trials suggest that acetyl-L-carnitine delays the progression of Alzheimer’s disease 1 2 and enhances overall performance in some people with Alzheimer’s disease.3 Alzheimer’s research has been done with the acetyl-L-carnitine form, rather than the L-carnitine form, of this nutrient. One double-blind trial4 has found that acetyl-L-carnitine may be helpful for people with degenerative cerebellar ataxia, a loss of muscular coordination caused by disease in the cerebellum (the hind part of the brain that controls muscle tone and balance). 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):
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.5 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 odor have been reported in people taking acetyl-L-carnitine.6 7 Are there any drug interactions? Certain medications may interact with acetyl-L-carnitine. Refer to the drug interactions safety check for a list of those medications. References: 
1. Pettegrew JW, Klunk WE, Panchalingam K, et al. Clinical and neurochemical effects of acetyl-L-carnitine in Alzheimer’s disease. Neurobiol Aging 1995;16:1–4. 2. Sano M, Bell K, Cote L, et al. Double-blind parallel design pilot study of acetyl levocarnitine in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Arch Neurol 1992;49:1137–41. 3. Cucinotta D, Passeri M, Ventura S, et al. Multicenter clinical placebo-controlled study with acetyl-L-carnitine (LAC) in the treatment of mildly demented elderly patients. Drug Development Res 1988;14:213–6. 4. Sorbi S, Forleo P, Fani C, Piacentini S. Double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled clinical trial with L-acetylcarnitine in patients with degenerative cerebellar ataxia. Clin Neuropharmacol 2000;23:114–8. 5. No authors listed. Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Altern Med Rev 1999;4:438–41 [review]. 6. 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. 7. 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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