Sections View Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Annotate Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Supplementary Content +++ INTRODUCTION ++ Pharmacology Levocarnitine (L-carnitine) is an endogenous carboxylic acid that facilitates transport of long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for beta-oxidation and prevents intracellular accumulation of toxic acyl-CoA. L-Carnitine is ubiquitous in diets rich in meats and dairy products and is also synthesized in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. Although dietary deficiencies are rare, hypocarnitinemia can result from certain medical conditions and inborn errors of metabolism, and it may develop in patients receiving multiple anticonvulsant medications. It is hypothesized that valproic acid (VPA) causes carnitine deficiency, resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction. The resultant impaired beta-oxidation favors production of toxic VPA metabolites via microsomal oxidation. These metabolites are implicated in hepatotoxicity and urea cycle disruption, causing hyperammonemia. Supplementation with L-carnitine has been shown to be beneficial in both the prevention and the treatment of hyperammonemia associated with VPA therapy, and it may improve the outcome in cases of VPA-induced hepatotoxicity and encephalopathy. L-Carnitine is also sold as a dietary supplement with a wide range of unproven claims ranging from improved sperm motility to prevention of Alzheimer disease. It is postulated that carnitine supplementation enhances fat utilization during exercise, thereby improving endurance and promoting weight loss. However, published studies have failed to show that supraphysiologic doses of L-carnitine have any benefit in well-nourished individuals. Because the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements, the safety of L-carnitine supplements cannot be guaranteed (see "Herbal and Alternative Products"). Indications Hyperammonemia, encephalopathy, and hepatotoxicity related to VPA therapy or overdose Low plasma-free carnitine concentrations (reference range, 19–60 mcmol/L) or total carnitine (reference range, 30–73 mcmol/L) in patients taking valproic acid. Primary or secondary carnitine deficiency. Infants and children younger than 2 years receiving VPA as part of a regimen of multiple anticonvulsant drugs. Contraindications. None known. Adverse effects Dose- and duration-related nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and a fishy body odor. Tachydysrhythmias, hypertension, and hypotension associated with IV administration were reported during FDA postmarketing surveillance, although they appear to be rare. Seizures were reported during FDA postmarketing surveillance in five patients but due to underlying seizure disorders or concurrent use of other medications, no direct link could be established. Use in pregnancy. FDA Category B (Introduction). No adequate studies have been conducted in pregnant women. It is not known whether this drug is secreted in human breast milk. Drug or laboratory interactions. None known. Dosage and method of administration Severe valproate-induced hepatotoxicity, hyperammonemia, encephalopathy, or acute valproic acid overdose. Early intervention with IV carnitine has been associated with better outcomes. Intravenous administration is preferred because of poor oral bioavailability (5-15%). Optimal dosing is unknown, but a common approach is a loading dose of 100 mg/kg (by IV infusion over 15–30 minutes or slow bolus injection over 2–3 minutes), followed by a maintenance dose of 50 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 3 g per dose) every 8 hours. Therapy can continue until clinical improvement occurs and/or ammonia levels decrease. Up to ... Your Access profile is currently affiliated with [InstitutionA] and is in the process of switching affiliations to [InstitutionB]. Please select how you would like to proceed. Keep the current affiliation with [InstitutionA] and continue with the Access profile sign in process Switch affiliation to [InstitutionB] and continue with the Access profile sign in process Get Free Access Through Your Institution Learn how to see if your library subscribes to McGraw Hill Medical products. Subscribe: Institutional or Individual Sign In Error: Incorrect UserName or Password Username Error: Please enter User Name Password Error: Please enter Password Sign in Forgot Password? Forgot Username? Download the Access App: iOS | Android Sign in via OpenAthens Sign in via Shibboleth You already have access! Please proceed to your institution's subscription. Create a free profile for additional features.