Generic
Levocarnitine
7 brands available in the market
At a glance
Levocarnitine is an amino acid derivative used in the treatment of carnitine deficiency. It helps the body produce energy and improve body function efficiency.
Description
Levocarnitine is a naturally occurring substance required in mammalian energy metabolism. It facilitates long-chain fatty acid entry into cellular mitochondria, delivering substrate for oxidation and subsequent energy production. Fatty acids are utilized as an energy substrate in all tissues except the brain. In skeletal and cardiac muscle, fatty acids are the main substrate for energy production.
Indications
- Carnitine deficiency (primary and secondary)
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Heart diseases and congestive heart failure
- Kidney disease
- High cholesterol
- Intermittent claudication
- Dementia and memory impairment
- Down syndrome
- Male infertility
- Hyperthyroidism
Therapeutic class
Muscular Energy Metabolism Drugs
Pharmacological class
Amino Acid Derivative
Pharmacology
Levocarnitine facilitates long-chain fatty acid entry into mitochondria, promoting fatty acid oxidation and energy production.
Mechanism of action
Improves low carnitine levels in the body and increases fatty acid metabolism.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Tablet):
- 330 mg two or three times daily
- Oral Solution: 10-30 mL/day
Child Dose (Tablet):
- 50-100 mg/kg/day in divided doses, maximum 3 g/day
- Oral Solution: 50-100 mg/kg/day, maximum 30 mL/day
Administration
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- Take with food
- Oral solution: May be consumed alone or dissolved in drink; consume slowly
Missed dose
Not generally applicable; consult doctor if needed.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Transient nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
Levocarnitine is generally well tolerated.
Precautions & warnings
- Gastrointestinal reactions may result from too rapid consumption
- Chronic high-dose use in severe renal insufficiency or dialysis patients may lead to accumulation of toxic metabolites
- Monitor blood glucose levels regularly
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Levocarnitine or its components
Drug interactions
No significant drug interactions known.
Food interactions
Safety with alcohol is not known; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Levocarnitine is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Levocarnitine is probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby.
Pediatric use
Pediatric doses are established (weight-based).
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly; no special precautions needed.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Use with caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Hepatic Impairment: Probably safe in liver disease; dose adjustment may not be needed.
Overdose effects
No reports of toxicity from overdosage.
Storage conditions
Do not store above 30°C; keep away from light and out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Levocarnitine