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Carnitine

Potential uses as a pharmaceutical


Heart conditions


Carnitine is primarily used for heart-related conditions. Several

clinical trials show that L-carnitine and propionyl-L-carnitine can be

used along with conventional treatment for angina to reduce medication

needs and improve the ability of those with angina to exercise without

chest pain.[10][11] There is little evidence about a positive effect of

the use of carnitine after a heart attack. Some studies suggest that

people taking L-carnitine may be less likely to suffer a subsequent

heart attack or experience chest pain and abnormal heart rhythms.

However, other studies have not found similar benefits.[13] Further

research on this subject is needed.


Kidney disease and dialysis


Because kidneys produce carnitine, kidney disease may lead to the

deficiency of carnitine in the body. Thus, carnitine may be prescribed

to those with kidney disease.[14]


Effect in male infertility


The use of carnitine showed some promise in a controlled trial in

selected cases of male infertility by improving sperm quality.[15]

L-carnitine supplementation has also shown to have beneficial effects

in the treatment of varicocele, a major cause of male infertility. [16]


As a weight loss supplement


"Although L-carnitine has been marketed as a weight-loss supplement,

there is no scientific evidence to show that it improves weight loss;

however, some studies show that oral carnitine reduces fat mass,

increases muscle mass, and reduces fatigue. All of these effects may

contribute to weight loss."[17] Furthermore, whereas researchers in

the 20th century failed to show that muscle carnitine content could be

increased by dietary supplementation, this may have been in part due

to inadequate lengths of the supplementation periods.[18] In 2011,

researchers using L-carnitine L-tartrate supplementation for 6

months in a well controlled study demonstrated not only increased

muscle carnitine in subjects without carnitine deficiencies, but also

an impact on muscle metabolism and performance; however,

measurements of lipid oxidation were not taken in this study,

and further research is needed.[19]


Regular supplements of L-carnitine, however, contribute to energy

metabolism and improved neurotransmitter function in the brain

in elderly patients.