CARNITOR (LEVOCARNITINE)

Description of Carnitor

Carnitor or generic Levocarnitine is prescribed to treat and prevent the lack of an amino acid your body requires to carry out the vital process of energy production that is important to the tissues of your heart and skeletal muscles. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

By taking Carnitor as directed by your doctor, it will work to increase your body’s current low level of this amino acid and be able to break down the stored fat in your body which is then transported to the site of energy production within your cells, called the mitochondria. Carnitor also removes any toxins from your cells.

What is Carnitine Deficiency?

Primary Carnitine deficiency means your body cannot process fats into energy properly due to a flaw in the protein responsible for transporting Carnitine. This is a genetic disorder that babies can be born with and will usually become evident at about 5 years of age. Symptoms of Carnitine deficiency include low blood glucose, weakness of the skeletal muscles, and a chronic (persistent) disease of the heart muscle called cardiomyopathy.

Secondary Carnitine deficiency could occur due to chronic kidney failure that usually results in the need for dialysis. Other causes may be due to an enzyme deficiency, or there is not enough Carnitine in your diet. You can be at a greater risk of a Carnitine deficiency if you are a vegetarian as red meat contains a high Carnitine content. Detection and treatment is essential as a Carnitine deficiency can cause a diverse group of disorders that involve your muscles and heart.

What to Tell Your Doctor Before Taking Carnitor

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding to be certain Carnitor does not pose a health risk. Describe other medical conditions and allergies you have to your doctor and provide a list of Rx and OTC meds you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements. This will help your doctor determine if Carnitor is safe for you to take.

What You Should Know About Taking Carnitor

Carnitor is available in pill form taken whole and a chewable pill that is better suited for younger children. You should take Carnitor as directed by your doctor before or right after a meal and try to keep a steady level of Carnitor in your system by dividing the daily dosage into 3 or 4 times a day with a meal in order to maximize its benefits. Keep all medications out of children’s reach and never share with anyone.

Possible Side Effects of Carnitor

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain