L-Carnitine (Levocarnitine)

FDA Approved

Amino Acid Derivative | Fatty Acid Transporter

Weight: 161.20 Da
Half-life: ~2-3 hours (injectable)
2 studies
2018 latest
established
Dose 50-200mg daily
Frequency Once daily or pre-workout
Cycle 8-16 weeks (can be used continuously)
Storage Lyophilized: -20°C; Reconstituted: 2-8°C for 2-4 weeks
Accumulation Plotter

Community Research

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L-Carnitine is an amino acid derivative naturally produced in the body and essential for transporting long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. Injectable forms bypass digestive absorption limitations of oral supplements.

Mechanism of Action

Acts as a carrier molecule, shuttling long-chain fatty acids across the inner mitochondrial membrane via the carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) system. This is the rate-limiting step in fatty acid oxidation for energy production.

01 Enhanced fatty acid transport to mitochondria
02 Improved energy production from fats
03 Better bioavailability than oral forms
04 Support for exercise recovery
05 Potential cognitive benefits

Molecular Data

Molecular Weight
161.20 Da
Type
Quaternary ammonium compound
Peak 0.0 mcg
Trough 0.0 mcg
SS Peak 0.0 mcg
SS Trough 0.0 mcg

Research Indications

Metabolic
Fatty Acid Oxidation most effective

Primary function transporting fatty acids into mitochondria for beta-oxidation.

Energy Production effective

Supports ATP generation from fat metabolism, particularly during exercise.

Weight Management moderate

May enhance fat utilization when combined with exercise and caloric deficit.

Performance
Exercise Recovery moderate

May reduce muscle damage markers and improve recovery post-exercise.

Endurance Support moderate

Enhances fat utilization during prolonged exercise, potentially sparing glycogen.

Clinical Uses
Carnitine Deficiency most effective

FDA-approved treatment for primary and secondary carnitine deficiency.

Dialysis Support effective

Used in patients on hemodialysis who develop carnitine depletion.

Dosing Protocols

Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection provides superior bioavailability compared to oral supplementation, which is limited to ~15-20% absorption.

GoalDoseFrequencyRoute
Standard Protocol50-100mgDailySubQ
Advanced Protocol100-200mgDailySubQ or IM
Pre-Workout100-200mg30-60 min before exerciseSubQ

Reconstitution Instructions

Materials Needed:
  • L-Carnitine lyophilized powder (typically 200mg vial)
  • Bacteriostatic water (2.0mL recommended)
  • Insulin syringes (29-31 gauge)
  • Alcohol swabs
  1. 1 Allow vial to reach room temperature
  2. 2 Clean rubber stopper with alcohol swab
  3. 3 Add 2.0mL bacteriostatic water for 100mg/mL concentration
  4. 4 Inject slowly along vial wall
  5. 5 Gently swirl to dissolve; never shake
  6. 6 Label with date and store refrigerated at 2-8°C
  7. 7 Use within 2-4 weeks of reconstitution

Interactions

~
Thyroid Hormones
L-Carnitine may affect thyroid hormone action. Those on thyroid medication should monitor levels.
monitor
~
Anticoagulants
May enhance effects of warfarin and similar medications.
monitor

What to Expect

Immediate
Injectable form provides rapid absorption within 30-60 minutes
Week 1-2
Potential improvements in energy and exercise capacity
Week 4-8
Cumulative benefits on fat metabolism and recovery
Week 8-16
Full metabolic optimization when combined with exercise

Side Effects & Safety

Common Side Effects

  • Injection site reactions
  • Mild nausea
  • Body odor (fishy smell at high doses)

Stop Signs - Discontinue if:

  • Allergic reactions (rare)
  • Severe gastrointestinal distress
  • Unusual muscle weakness

Contraindications

  • Seizure disorders (may lower seizure threshold)
  • Hypothyroidism (may affect thyroid function)
  • Allergy to carnitine products

Quality Checklist

Good Signs

  • White crystalline powder
  • Clear, colorless solution after reconstitution
  • Certificate of Analysis with purity testing

Warning Signs

  • Should dissolve completely without residue

Bad Signs

  • Discolored powder
  • Cloudy or particulate solution
  • Strong unusual odor

References

  • L-Carnitine Supplementation and Exercise
    (2018)

    Meta-analysis showing modest benefits of L-carnitine on exercise performance and recovery markers.

  • Carnitine Metabolism and Function
    (2012)

    Comprehensive review of carnitine's role in fatty acid transport and energy metabolism.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.