Acetyl-L-carnitine: Can it relieve MS fatigue?

I've read that the dietary supplement acetyl-L-carnitine may reduce fatigue in multiple sclerosis. Is this true?

- Rilda / Canada

Answer

Some research suggests that acetyl-L-carnitine may improve fatigue associated with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Acetyl-L-carnitine is a form of L-carnitine, an amino acid that is found in nearly all cells of the body. L-carnitine plays a critical role in the production of energy from long chain fatty acids. In addition, it increases the activity of certain nerve cells in the central nervous system.

Fatigue is a common symptom in people with multiple sclerosis. The cause isn't well understood. A study published in 2006 evaluated the benefit of supplementation with L-carnitine in people with MS-related fatigue who had low blood levels of L-carnitine. Study participants were given 3 to 6 grams of oral L-carnitine daily. Researchers reported a decrease in fatigue intensity in 63 percent of participants treated with immunosuppressive drugs, especially in those treated with cyclophosphamide and interferon beta.

Although acetyl-L-carnitine generally has only few or mild side effects, it can interfere with several medications, including anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, cephalosporins, penicillin derivatives, zidovudine and valproic acid. So talk to your doctor before starting acetyl-L-carnitine or any dietary supplement.

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