What is Acetyl-L-carnitine?

Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) is made in the body from amino acid carnitine. It helps turn fat into energy and is important for brain function. 

What is it used for? 

• Studied for depression, age-related memory problems, and nerve pain. 

• While some studies show positive effects, more research is needed to know how well it works for these uses. 

How does it work? 

It helps the brain by improving energy production in brain cells, protecting nerve cells from damage, and supporting the production of important brain chemicals like acetylcholine, phospholipid, and fatty-acids. 

It may also help reduce inflammation, support the repair of nerve cells, and prevent cell death in the brain. 

How should it be taken? 

Acetylcysteine is usually taken by mouth as a tablet and with food to reduce stomach upset. 

The typical dose studied is between 1000 and 3000 mg per day. 

Possible side effects 

Common: Nausea, stomach pain, or restlessness. Rare: urine, breath, and sweat may have a fishy odor. 

Special considerations 

• It is best to avoid using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding as there is limited information on the safety during pregnancy. 

• Used with caution in people taking blood thinning medication due to a possible increase in anti-coagulation effect. 

• Individuals on dialysis should not take without physician supervision. 

• People with borderline and low thyroid levels should exerxise caution: it may further impair thyroid function. 

• People with chemo therapy related nerve damage may feel worse neuropathic pain.