Carnitine

About carnitine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as metabolics.

Carnitine is a naturally occurring substance that carries fatty acids into the body cells where they are converted into a source of energy for the heart, muscles and the brain. Carnitine also helps in the removal of toxic waste from the body. Sometimes not enough carnitine enters the cells resulting in carnitine deficiency.

Carnitine can be used to treat carnitine deficiency by increasing the amount in the body.

Carnitine is available in oral liquid, paediatric liquid and injection form.

It is also sometimes known as: L-carnitine; Levocarnitine; Carnitor. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking carnitine

Before taking carnitine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney problems
• if you suffer from diabetes
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to take carnitine

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• The oral liquid may be diluted with water or fruit juice to make it taste more pleasant.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of carnitine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside carnitine.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor, so your progress can be monitored.

Can carnitine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome:

Feeling sick, being sick, tummy pains, diarrhoea or body odours.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store carnitine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 27/01/2006