Levocarnitine
CARNITOR
What it isCarnitine supplement enabling fatty acid transport into mitochondria; primary and secondary carnitine deficiency.
Why this oneIt is the specific treatment for carnitine deficiency, including valproate-induced hyperammonemia.
What limits itA fishy body odor is common and limits adherence. Evidence outside true deficiency is weak.
FDA label
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| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnitine deficiency (primary/secondary) | Adults | 990 mg BID–TID | 990 mg BID or TID | per clinical response |
| Carnitine deficiency | Infants & children | 50 mg/kg/day divided | 50–100 mg/kg/day divided | 3 g/day |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Oral only; not for parenteral use.
- Space doses evenly (every 3–4 hr), preferably during or after meals.
- Solution may be taken alone or dissolved in drink; consume slowly to maximize tolerance.
Available strengths
- tab 330 mg
- sol 1 g/10 mL
- inj 200 mg/mL
Cautions
- Seizures reported (with or without pre-existing seizure disorder); may increase seizure frequency/severity
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, urticaria, facial edema)
Adverse reactions
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea
- Body odor
- Seizures; rash, urticaria, facial edema
Pregnancy Animal studies show no fetal harm; no adequate human studies — use only if clearly needed.
Lactation Undefined
Cost
Generic entry2001
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskFishy body odor limiting adherence
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryUnknown / historical label unavailable
Defining liabilityGenerally tolerated at therapeutic doses; clinically important risks are agent-specific and increase with interactions or organ impairment.