Carnitine
Uses
Also known as L-carnitine, this is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative required by the body in energy metabolism and for proper use of fats. L-Carnitine is used as a dietary supplement to treat carnitine deficiency. It may also be used in persons with abnormal plasma lipoprotein patterns. If you have serious kidney disease (such as ESRD/dialysis), the intravenous (IV) form of carnitine should be used. The reason is that large doses of carnitine taken by mouth for long periods of time may result in serious side effects (e.g., seizures), interfere with dialysis (increased nitrogen wastes), and cause "fishy odor to occur.
Storage
- Store L-Carnitine at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
Overdose
- If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
