|
Acetyl-L-carnitine is a molecular compound found in the brain,
kidneys, and liver. This substance is also artificially produced as
a dietary supplement.
Acetyl L-Carnitine
Uses
Acetyl-L-carnitine is very similar in
composition and somewhat in function to the amino acid L-carnitine
which affects the metabolism of food into energy. The acetyl
component of acetyl-L-carnitine is reported to be associated the
formation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetyl-L-carnitine
contributes to the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine,
a compound that is believed to affect mental function. Acetylcholine
metabolism malfunction in the brain, leading to deficiency, is
believed to be associated with age-related dementias, such as
Alzheimer's disease.
It has been suggested that
acetyl-L-carnitine may play a part in delaying the progression of
Alzheimer's disease and enhance performance in some Alzheimer’s
patients. In a placebo-controlled study of 30 patients whose
mild-to-moderate dementias were believed to be symptoms of
Alzheimer's disease, there were positive results as measured by some
of the neuropsychological tests employed in the study. Most
Alzheimer's research relating to the Acetyl-L group has been
performed with the acetyl-L-carnitine form rather than the
L-carnitine form of this compound.
Based on successful
studies, some scientists claim that acetyl-L-carnitine may be a
helpful supplement for people with degenerative cerebellar ataxia, a
loss of muscular coordination caused by disease in the cerebellum.
Acetyl-L-carnitine has also been suggested as a possible
neuroprotective agent that may also be useful for strokes, Down's
syndrome and for the management of various neuropathies.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine may have certain anti-aging properties and there
is promising research to support the beneficial effect
acetyl-l-carnitine on sperm motility.
Recommended
Dosage
Studies suggest to use 500 mg
acetyl-L-carnitine three times per day, though some research has
doubled this amount.
Supporting
Literature
Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Alternative
Medecine Review 1999;4:438–440
Chuang WW, Lin WW, Lamb DJ, and
Lipshultz LI. Effect of acetylcarnitine on sperm motility. J Urol.
2000; 163(4).
Lolic MM and Fiskum G. Neuroprotective effects of
acetyl-L-carnitine after stroke in rats. Annot Emergency Medicine.
1997; 29:758-765.
Pettegrew JW, Klunke WE, Panchalingam K.
Clinical and biochemical effects of acetyl-L-carnitine in
Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiolical Aging. 1995; 16:1-4.
Sano M,
Bell K, Cote L, et al. Double-blind parallel pilot study of acetyl
levocarnitine in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Arch Neurol.
1992; 49:1137-1141.
|
