Have any long-range side effects ( good or bad) been mapped for acetyl-l carnitine?

Apparently acetyl-l-carnitine has some small possible minor side effects as well as some benefits

Side Effects

1. Increase in blood pressure

2. Faster heartbeat

3. Fever and possible rash

4. Large amounts can lead to diarrhoea

5. Can cause nausea/vomiting, headache, bladder irritation or infection, unusual body odour, stuffy nose

6. Possibility of restlessness and difficulty sleeping due to the nature of the drug.

Benefits

1. It has a role in energy production and therefore a role in weight control

2. It can enhance cellular energy in the brain

3. It can alleviate the effects of depression

4. Can help to prevent cataracts

5. Can help those in a physically demanding job/hobby

6. Some studies have found evidence that acetyl-l-carnitine, might be helpful in Alzheimer's disease

7. Uncontrolled studies suggest that L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine may be helpful for improving sperm function.

8. Weak evidence also suggests that carnitine may be helpful for decreasing the toxicity of AZT (a drug used to treat AIDS).

Safety Issues

L-carnitine in its three forms appears to be quite safe. However, individuals with low or borderline-low thyroid levels should avoid carnitine because it might impair the action of thyroid hormone.

Individuals on dialysis should not receive this (or any other supplement) without a physician's supervision. The maximum safe dosages for young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease have not been established.

Interaction Drug Side Effects You Should Know About

If you are taking;

• Antiseizure medications, particularly valproic acid (Depakote, Depakene) but also phenytoin (Dilantin): You may need extra carnitine.

• Thyroid medication: Do not take carnitine except under a physician's supervision

Like any drug, the possible side effects will affect people differently - due to metabolic factors - speak to your doctor for more information

L-carnitine Bad Side Effects