Summary
L-carnitine supplementation is indicated for the treatment of primary and secondary carnitine deficiencies. (More information)
Healthy individuals, including strict vegetarians, generally synthesize enough L-carnitine to prevent deficiency. (More information)
Hemodialysis patients with selected symptoms that do not respond to standard therapy may benefit from a trial of L-carnitine supplementation. (More information)
Propionyl- L-carnitine supplementation appears promising as a treatment for intermittent claudication in peripheral arterial disease. (More information)
The roles of L-carnitine supplementation as an adjunct to standard medical therapy in myocardial infarction, heart failure, angina pectoris, Alzheimer's disease, and HIV infection require further research. (More information)
Although studies in rats suggest acetyl- L-carnitine supplementation may be beneficial in preventing age-related declines in energy metabolism and memory, it is not known whether acetyl- L-carnitine supplementation will help prevent such age-related declines in humans. (More information)
There is little evidence that L-carnitine supplementation improves athletic performance in healthy people. (More information)
If you choose to take carnitine supplements, the Linus Pauling Institute recommends acetyl-L-carnitine at a daily dose of 500 to 1,000 mg.