Description

Levocarnitine is a naturally occurring substance required in mammalian energy metabolism. It has been shown to facilitate long-chain fatty acid entry into cellular mitochondria, thereby 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.

Generally, Levocarnitine is well tolerated. However, few side effects including transient nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea may occur.

There is no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Levocarnitine supplementation in nursing mothers has not been specifically studied. In nursing mothers receiving levocarnitine, any risks to the child of excess carnitine intake need to be weighed against the benefits of levocarnitine supplementation to the mother. Consideration may be given to discontinuation of nursing or of levocarnitine treatment.

Gastrointestinal reactions may result from a too rapid consumption of Levocarnitine. The safety and efficacy of oral levocarnitine has not been evaluated in patients with renal insufficiency. Chronic administration of high doses of oral levocarnitine in patients with severely compromised renal function or in ESRD patients on dialysis may result in accumulation of the potentially toxic metabolites, trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine-N oxide (TMAO), since these metabolites are normally excreted in the urine.

There have been no reports of toxicity from levocarnitine overdosage.

Drugs for muscular energy metabolism

Do not store above 30°C. Keep away from light and out of the reach of children.