L carnitine: when and how to use this drug

L carnitine - this medication contains substances that trigger the mechanism of burning excess calories. Thanks to its effect, fat molecules accumulated in the subcutaneous tissue enter the blood and then into cellular mitochondria. Here fatty acids are broken down and release energy to the body. The medicine activates metabolism and improves appetite. L-carnitine for weight loss is used in combination with a set of physical exercises. Athletes use it during training to increase endurance and quickly build muscle mass.

general information

Acetyl L-carnitine is a derivative of levocarnitine. In the process of absorption, carnitine undergoes a number of biological processes, one of which is acetylation. For this process to occur successfully, the body must have a sufficient amount of coenzyme Q10, as well as an elevated body temperature. These conditions are usually achieved through cardio exercise or taking thermogenics. Acetylcarnitine is a more bioavailable compound that has already undergone the process of acetylation, and therefore its absorption time is much shorter.

Acetyl-L-carnitine is used to support the functioning of the central nervous system. It takes part in the transport of oxygen to cells, increasing their energy potential. Since it is the brain that consumes the most energy in the human body, taking Alkar is reflected there first. It is used to enhance the production of acetylcholine and neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. Therefore, this connection is indispensable during periods of increased mental stress.

MRM, Acetyl L-Carnitine, 500 mg, 60 Vegan Capsules

547 rub.

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Differences between acetyl-L-carnitine and L-carnitine

Levocarnitine is more common among athletes and bodybuilders due to its ability to burn fat. The active component transports fats from food to mitochondria, which are responsible for the synthesis of ATP, the main source of energy for humans.

Find out more:

“Sports supplement L-carnitine: what it is and how it works.”

Acetyl-L-carnitine (alcar, acetylcarnitine) is most often used as a brain stimulant. The substance improves cognitive abilities: attention, speech, intelligence, perception, memory. Acetylcarnitine is one of the isomers, i.e. derivatives of levocarnitine. An isomer is a substance with the same composition, but a slightly different structure, which determines the differences in properties.

To understand the difference between acetyl-L-carnitine and L-carnitine, you need to familiarize yourself with the process of absorption of the latter:

1. During absorption by the body, carnitine must undergo several biological processes. One of them is acetylation (introduction of an acetyl group into a compound).
2. For acetylation, two conditions must be met: a sufficient amount of coenzyme Q10 and elevated temperature. This can usually be achieved by taking thermogenics or cardio exercises.

We recommend:

“Thermogenics and lipotropics - what exactly burns fat.”

Acetylcarnitine has already undergone the acetylation procedure, i.e. it contains an acetyl group. This makes the supplement more bioavailable compared to levocarnitine, which means faster absorption. And this already explains why acetylcarnitine can be taken in smaller doses, because it is a more active version of regular L-carnitine.

The benefits of alkar for the body

Acetyl L-carnitine has a beneficial effect on the body:

• reduces the volume of fat deposits by breaking down fats into fatty acids and converting them into a source of energy;
• increases physical endurance, making training more effective;
• helps speed up metabolism;
• prevents damage to muscle fibers during intense exercise;
• regulates the activity of the nervous and cardiovascular systems;
• improves psycho-emotional state;
• prevents rapid aging of brain cells;
• helps improve immune status;
• increases performance.

You can take acetyl-L-carnitine supplements regardless of age or exercise. It is prescribed to both young and old people, men and women. It is well suited for people with autoimmune disorders because it is absorbed easier and faster than usual.

Comparison of Alcar and Levocarnitine

Acetyl-L-carnitine differs from regular levocarnitine by the presence of a special acetyl group. During the process of absorption in the human body, this group attaches to the levocarnitine molecule. This process is called acetylation.

In the video, a master of sports in bodybuilding compares two types of carnitine:

Acetyl L - Carnitine or L - Carnitine. What's better? from Papa Smith

General properties

The substances have an identical molecular structure - they are the same amino acid, just in two different isomers. They have a similar effect:

• stimulate fat metabolism, accelerating the breakdown of fats into fatty acids;
• increase the energy potential of the body;
• improve endurance and performance.

Acetyl L-carnitine is a more active version of regular levocarnitine. Therefore, you can take supplements containing acetyl-L-carnitine in smaller dosages.

Difference between substances

The main difference is the presence of an acetyl group. Acetyl L-Carnitine is absorbed and reaches the brain faster than regular L-Carnitine. Therefore, it is widely used in the treatment of central nervous system diseases, cognitive impairment and for the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. This difference leads to different indications for use - L-carnitine is more often used in sports nutrition, and acetyl-L-carnitine is used to improve performance and prevent brain disorders.

Alkar more easily overcomes the blood-brain barrier, which leads to a rapid increase in the concentration of the substance in the nervous tissue. It is excreted faster by the kidneys and retains its concentration in plasma for less time, and therefore is less suitable for sports.

The supplement is easier to digest, and therefore its dosage should be less than that of regular levocarnitine. Acetylcarnitine can be used in lower concentrations; it is less likely to cause side effects and addiction.

Doctor's Best, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, 500 mg, 120 Veggie Caps

RUB 2,088

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History of discovery

The compound was first discovered by Russian researcher Gulevich in animal muscle tissue. In 1927, the chemical formula of carnitine was described, but the question of its significance in biochemical reactions remains open. In 1958, the role in stimulating the oxidation of fatty acids in the mitochondria of cellular structures was clarified.

In the 80s of the 20th century, the industrial production of biological additives began to stimulate metabolic processes in the body. The product has become popular both in medicine and in sports nutrition. Modern methods of rejuvenation and increasing endurance to adverse environmental factors offer this amino acid to various groups of the population.

Indications for use

Acetyl-L-carnitine is prescribed in the following cases:

• memory impairment;
• anxiety disorders;
• male infertility;
• cataract;
• disorders of the blood supply to the brain;
• smoking or drinking alcohol;
• recovery after ischemic brain damage.

It is recommended to take acetyl-L-carnitine if your immune system is weakened, as it has a positive effect on the bone marrow. The compound has a beneficial effect on the hypothalamus, increasing the secretion of testosterone. This increases the effectiveness of training, and also improves the quality of sperm, increasing the chances of successful conception.

The use of the product increases the energy potential of the body. Reviews indicate that after starting the Alkar course, performance increases, the emotional background improves, and fatigue decreases. The substance can also be used for weight loss, but it must be combined with physical exercise; the usual use of the substance for weight loss will not be enough.

Contraindications for use

Acetyl-L-carnitine is not used in the following cases:

• individual sensitivity to the active component;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• hepatitis;
• diabetes;
• hypothyroidism;
• epilepsy;
• renal failure.

The compound reduces blood clotting, so it is not recommended for use before surgery. For the same reason, it is prescribed with caution for hemophilia.

The instructions for use of acetyl-L-carnitine indicate that use during pregnancy and lactation is possible only after consultation with a doctor. It is not advisable to take the compound on your own, since clinical trials have not been conducted on its effect on a growing organism.

Side effects and contraindications

Sometimes it is possible to increase the level of activation (mild euphoria) 1-2 hours after administration. Very rarely, when taking large doses, a feeling of mild nausea may occur - in these cases, reduce the dose.

Contraindications: Individual intolerance to the components, pregnant and lactating women. It is recommended to consult a doctor before use.

Storage conditions . Store at a temperature not exceeding 25 °C, in a dry place out of reach of children.

Release forms

Acetyl-L-carnitine is available in several variations:

1. Capsules. The best option for use in the presence of gastrointestinal pathologies. Does not irritate the stomach walls. The capsule shell begins to dissolve only in the intestines, which is why the capsule product begins to act later than ever.
2. Pills. The most popular release variation. One tablet contains the required daily dose (500 or 1000 mg). The advantage of this form is ease of use.
3. Solution. Acetyl-L-carnitine in this form begins to be absorbed most quickly. Within 20-30 minutes it begins to be absorbed into the blood from the gastrointestinal tract. But such solutions are not suitable for people with stomach pathologies, since additional components can have an irritating effect on the gastric wall.
4. Powder. The product in powder form is very economical. According to the instructions, one scoop per application is enough. As a disadvantage, it is worth noting that the powder must be diluted in 500 ml of water, which must be drunk at a time. Also, you cannot prepare the solution for future use; you need to re-dilute the powder each time.

Dosage form

L carnitine is produced in the form of syrup, tablets and capsules. The liquid form is sold in dark glass bottles. The syrup is packaged in 100 ml containers, which contain 10 g of the main active ingredient – ​​levocarnitine.

Elcarnitine tablets can have different dosages - 100 mg and 500 mg. They are packaged in blisters of 10 pieces, the package can contain from 3-5 to 8 blisters. An additional ingredient here is ascorbic acid.

The medicine is also sold in capsules of 250 and 500 mg, packaged in bottles made of polymer material. There are 60, 150 pieces in one jar.

Daily dosages

Acetyl-L-carnitine can be used in different dosages, depending on the purpose of its use:

• increased mental stress, stress, prevention of cognitive impairment - from 1500 to 4000 mg per day;
• as part of complex therapy for diseases of the nervous system - from 1500 to 3000 mg per day;
• for weight loss during drying and for weight loss - up to 2000 mg per day;
• to increase testosterone levels and treat male infertility - from 3000 to 4000 mg per day.

The daily dosage is divided into 2-3 applications. The latter should not be later than 15:00, so as not to cause problems with night sleep. The exact dose of acetyl L-carnitine is calculated individually, based on the patient’s health status, age, weight and purpose of use.

Special instructions for use

Acetyl L-carnitine should be consumed in the first half of the day, as it has a pronounced stimulating effect on the nervous system. The duration of the course is up to 30 days. The product can be drunk half an hour before training if the goal of taking it is to lose weight. To improve the functioning of the nervous system, you can take the supplement with or after food. People with gastrointestinal pathologies are not recommended to use alkar before meals.

Directions for use and dosage

The tablets are taken orally; if necessary, you can take the medicine with water. The dosage and duration of treatment are determined by the attending physician after examining the patient. The average dose for an adult is 250 or 500 mg 2-3 times a day. People involved in sports take L-carnitine once before physical activity in the amount of 500-1500 mg.

Capsules with levocarnitine are swallowed without chewing and washed down with the required volume of liquid. Dosage for adults – 250 or 500 mg 2-3 times a day, for athletes from 500 to 1500 mg per day before training.

Sweet syrup with L kartinin is consumed orally, regardless of food intake. The dose and course of therapy are prescribed by the doctor. Adults take 5 ml of liquid product three times a day. Athletes use the medicine immediately before physical activity, 15 ml 1 time.

For children, the medication is prescribed according to the following scheme:

• from 0-1 year, 8-20 drops;
• from 1-6 years, 20-28 drops;
• from 6-12 years, 2.5 ml.

You need to take Elkartinin 2 or 3 times a day for 30 days. After some time, the use of the product can be repeated. It is better to use the drug in courses and only as prescribed by a doctor.

Side effects

Acetyl L carnitine can cause the following side effects:

• migraine;
• sleep disorders;
• increased blood pressure;
• nausea, vomiting;
• increased excitability.

Diabetics may experience a sharp drop in glucose levels.

Allergic reactions

An allergy to acetyl-L-carnitine is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• feeling of heat throughout the body;
• dizziness;
• nausea;
• vomit;
• stool disorders;
• skin rash.

If the above reactions occur, it is recommended to stop using the supplement.

Explanation of the principle of table formation

The high bioavailability of acetyl-L-carnitine allows it to be taken in small quantities, daily intake is 500-1000 mg. If signs of nervous system diseases appear, the dosage can be increased several times by the attending physician.

Today, many manufacturers offer various dosage options and the number of capsules per package.

After analyzing the proposals, we came to the conclusion that the most economical is to take Acetyl-L-carnitine from the company. The package contains 60 capsules, and the total amount of active substance is 30,000 mg. The cost of the entire jar will be 450 rubles; purchasing a dietary supplement from this company is the most profitable. The ratio of total milligrams to price is 66.7.

Next in terms of economic feasibility are the following manufacturers:

• with a mg/ruble ratio of 64.3;
• (61,2);
• (60,0).

The most expensive for the buyer is acetyl-L carnitine from the manufacturers Solgar (ratio 12.9), Life Extension (13.3), Natures Bounty (13.3).

Signs of overdose

An overdose of acetyl L-carnitine is extremely rare, since the compound is water-soluble and is quickly eliminated by the kidneys without accumulating in the body. When consuming large doses, increased excitability and sleep problems may occur.

First aid if recommended dosages are exceeded is gastric lavage. Then you need to take enterosorbent and drink more clean water. In this case, the use of the additive should be stopped.

Compound

Weight of 1 capsule is 0.6 g. Ingredients: acetyl-L-carnitine, microcrystalline cellulose (carrier), potato starch, anti-caking agents: talc, calcium stearate, silicon dioxide.
Taking 1 capsule (recommended daily dose - RDP) will provide:

* does not exceed the upper permissible level.