Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a synthesized version of L-Carnitine that enhances energy production, supports fat burning, and improves cognitive function.
- ALCAR facilitates fatty acid transport to mitochondria, boosts acetylcholine formation, and exhibits antioxidant properties.
- ALCAR benefits brain health by supporting mitochondrial function, protecting brain cells, and improving cerebral blood circulation.
- It has potential therapeutic effects on conditions such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, depression, and mild cognitive impairment.
- ALCAR supplementation dosage recommendation is 500 – 1,500 mg per day depending on the desired goal.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR, ALC or LAC) is a synthesized version of L-Carnitine. Which is a derivative of the amino acids lysine and methionine.
ALCAR is more bioavailable than L-Carnitine. It easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. And delivers L-Carnitine across cell membranes and into your brain (which L-Carnitine would not be able to cross on its own).
L-Carnitine is naturally made in your liver and kidneys. And then transported to other tissues including your brain and heart.
ALCAR helps:
- Brain Energy Metabolism. ALCAR helps facilitate fatty acid transport to the mitochondria where they’re needed for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Fatty acid metabolism fuels your cells and can boost physical and mental energy. This also assists with fat burning in other cells.
- Neurotransmitters. ALCAR is a necessary ingredient for acetylcholine formation. Which boosts memory, mental alertness, and fluid thought.
- Brain Optimization. The antioxidant properties of Acetyl-L-Carnitine provides neuroprotective qualities, boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), and promotes cerebral blood circulation.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) Overview
L-Carnitine is an amino acid that’s synthesized in your body. You also get it from red meat and dairy.
L-Carnitine is considered a “conditionally essential” nutrient because when your body uses it faster than it can produce it, you need supplemental L-Carnitine either from food or a supplement.
L-Carnitine is used throughout your body. Here we’re talking about the Acetyl-L-Carnitine form of L-Carnitine because of its affects on brain health and chemistry.
L-Carnitine vs. Acetyl-L-Carnitine: What’s the Difference?
L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine are often referred to as Carnitine. But each are structurally different, and each has its advantages.
L-Carnitine: Helps produce energy within the mitochondria of your cells, but is not capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Supplemental L-Carnitine is difficult for your body to absorb; only 18% of it reaches your bloodstream.
L Carnitine supplements are favored by athletes and dieters who want Carnitine’s fat-metabolizing benefits. But are not seeking any brain benefits.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine: Is easier to absorb and used by your body than L-Carnitine. In one animal study, who were given 2 grams of ALCAR daily for 50 days, ALCAR boosted blood levels of ALCAR by 43%.[i]
ALCAR does everything that L-Carnitine does, but by adding an acetyl group, it but can also cross the blood-brain barrier. In another animal study, researchers found that ALCAR supports mitochondrial function which then protects brain cells from oxidative stress, while L-Carnitine does not.[ii]
How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine Work in the Brain?
Acetyl-L-Carnitine boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.
- ALCAR boosts acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter tied to memory and overall brain function. Acetyl-L-Carnitine is a precursor to acetylcholine in the presence of Coenzyme-A. Test tube studies shows that ALCAR donates a “methyl group” to help make acetylcholine.[iii]
Alzheimer’s-diseased brains show a 25% to 40% reduction in carnitine acetyltransferase, an enzyme that works with L-Carnitine & Acetyl-L-Carnitine.
This enzyme decline led researchers to link low ALCAR with low acetylcholine, and Alzheimer’s onset. They went on to suggest that the therapeutic properties of ALCAR supplementation is a viable therapy for brain regeneration.[iv]
- ALCAR promotes brain energy metabolism by supporting your brain cell’s mitochondria in creating ATP which is your main source of cellular energy.[v]
ALCAR works as a shuttle transport for fatty acids through cell membranes into mitochondria to assist with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis.[vi]
ALCAR is essential for fatty acid oxidation:
- ALCAR shuttles fatty acids into mitochondria, for the creation of ATP.
- ALCAR then shuttles fatty acids out of mitochondria, and flushes out tox ic byproducts.
ALCAR helps maintain mitochondrial function in nearly every cell of your body. Your brain consumes at least 20% of your body’s energy. And generates a lot of toxic byproducts as well as different chronic intermittent stressors. . So ALCAR supplementation is particularly important for a healthy brain.
How things go bad
As we get older, our brain chemistry and energy metabolism changes.[vii]
↓ Nerve growth factor in the brain declines
↓ Acetyl-L-Carnitine levels decline
↓ Acetylcholine levels decline
↓ Mitochondria loses efficiency
All of these age-related changes are contributing factors to cognitive impairment and the neurodegenerative diseases of aging, including Alzheimer’s and dementia.
ALCAR Nootropic benefits
Animal research conducted at the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University shows that Acetyl-L-Carnitine will:[viii]
- Restore efficient mitochondrial energy production
- Replenish age-related changes to mitochondrial structure
- Replenish ALCAR and acetylcholine levels in the brain and body
One of the most potent Acetyl-L-Carnitine benefits is that it has the ability to boost acetylcholine and rejuvenate brain cells (including mitochondria). This has been proven to benefit those with age-related brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and major depressive symptoms.[ix]
And one animal study conducted in New Delhi showed that Acetyl L-Carnitine reduces lipofuscin in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, striatum and thalamus.
How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine feel?
You may not feel ALCAR… unless you’re elderly, have low energy levels, or have Erectile Dysfunction. Within those specific groups, users of Acetyl-L-Carnitine report it helps with memory, mental fatigue, mood, mental performance and the ability to get and maintain an erection.
ALCAR’s brain support and its ability to support the mitochondria in your brain cells should boost cognition in all age and gender groups.
As a nootropic, ALCAR user reviews report a boost in energy and quicker thinking.
ALCAR Clinical Research
In one study, researchers showed that ALCAR may have beneficial effects for depression and dementia in the aging brain.[x]
Another study out of Italy; researchers showed that Acetyl-L-Carnitine stimulated the growth of new neurites. More of these minute projections from nerve cell bodies meant increased signaling between cells throughout the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).[xi]
And a study conducted at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York found that ALCAR has potential in treating the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. By directly affecting mitochondrial respiration and assisting dopamine receptors and the use of dopamine in the brain.
ALCAR helps with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
A gold-standard double-blind, randomized controlled trial on 1,204 people showed significant effect on attention, mental performance, memory and higher mental functions.[xii]
In this study ALCAR seemed to ward off further brain deterioration. And could be considered as therapy for brain degeneration.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine slows rate of cognitive decline
130 Alzheimer’s patients were given ALCAR or a placebo daily for a year. They were tested across 14 points of cognitive performance.
This research showed a slower decline in cognitive performance with the ALCAR group compared to the placebo group.[xiii]
ALCAR effective for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Acetyl-L-Carnitine has been shown to improve fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.
In a randomized, double-blind, crossover study; 36 people were treated for 3 months with either amantadine (used to treat Chronic Fatigue), or 1 gram of ALCAR twice daily.
The results of the study showed that ALCAR was better tolerated and more effective for brain function than the pharmaceutical for fatigue.[xiv]
Acetyl-L-Carnitine protects from oxidative damage of Ecstasy (MDMA)
Research has shown ALCAR to be effective in protecting your mitochondria from oxidative stress. But these guys took it a step further.
Male rats were given Acetyl-L-Carnitine before a dose of Ecstasy (MDMA). ALCAR pretreatment “exerts effective neuroprotection against MDMA-induced neurotoxicity at the mitochondrial level”, said the researchers.[xv]
Keep that in mind before your next party.
ALCAR for Erectile Dysfunction?
Carnitine versus androgen administration. In this study, 120 patients were split into 3 groups. Group 1 was given 160 mg of testosterone per day. The 2nd group was given 2 grams of Propionyl-L-Carnitine plus 2 grams of Acetyl L Carnitine hcl per day. And the 3rd group a placebo.
Did you know that there’s an International Index of Erectile Function?
Turns out the Propionyl-L-Carnitine/Acetyl-L-Carnitine stack was better than testosterone for sexual dysfunction. Without the side effects of an enlarged prostate, better orgasms, more sexual desire and improved mood.[xvi]
ALCAR Recommended Dosage
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine suggested dosage for cognitive benefits is 1 – 4 grams per day.
- For improved mood and elimination of chronic fatigue, 1 – 3 grams of ALCAR per day.
- For age-related memory concerns, 1 – 2 grams of ALCAR per day.
ALCAR is water-soluble and can be taken on an empty stomach with water. A few supplement manufacturers recommend taking their Acetyl-L-Carnitine with a meal. Which may imply that it’s fat-soluble although I’ve found no evidence in the scientific literature.
ALCAR Side Effects
Acetyl-L-Carnitine is produced naturally in your body. So is considered well-tolerated and safe.
Side effects are rare but can include nausea, vomiting, increased agitation, weight loss, and restlessness.
You can also see an increase in seizure frequency if you have any kind of seizure disorder.
ALCAR and thyroid hormones. L-carnitine inhibits both triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) entry into the cell. Which means ALCAR supplementation may make thyroid hormone replacement therapy less effective. But could also help someone suffering from hyperthyroidism.
Types of ALCAR to buy
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine: L-Carnitine with an extra acetyl group. This version of l carnitine is more bioavailable and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier.
- L-Carnitine: This is the standard form of l carnitine found in food.
- Lipo-Carn®: A proprietary blend of Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Studies show this combination is a powerful anti-aging duo.
Performance Lab Energy contains an effective dose of ALCAR Together, these two help combat diabetes, glucose metabolism, boost energy production, lower high blood pressure, fat metabolism, maintain proper cognitive function, protects the body from radiation and chemical toxins and helps immunity.[xvii]
- Propionyl-L-Carnitine: L-Carnitine combined with propionic acid. This form is noted for its antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress biomarkers, and is used for heart health applications. Also useful for erectile dysfunction.
- Biosint™ is pharmaceutical grade Acetyl-L-Carnitine that is manufactured in Italy by Sigma Tau HealthSciences
You can also get 500 mg Acetyl L-Carnitine, 100 mg BioEnhanced™ R-Lipoic Acid, 100 mg CoQ10, 10 mg BioPQQ®, and 2.5 mg BioPerine® in one dose of my favorite energy supplement Performance Lab® Energy.
Nootropics Expert Recommendation
Acetyl-L-Carnitine 500 – 1,500 mg per day
I recommend using Acetyl-L-Carnitine as a nootropic supplement.
Your body does synthesize some ALCAR on its own. And from the food you eat. But most L-Carnitine comes from red meat. And unless you eat a lot of great quality grass-fed beef or mutton you can not produce sufficient amounts, and likely have an Acetyl-L-Carnitine deficiency.
ALCAR is especially helpful for those suffering from age-related cognitive decline. Studies show it helps stop or reverse brain degeneration with Alzheimer’s Disease, and geriatric depression. Particularly in the early stages of the disease.
I suggest starting with a dose of 500 mg ALCAR daily. ALCAR is a great compliment to a stack including any of the racetams. Take enough Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline to eliminate a racetam-induced headache. Then add 500 mg of ALCAR.
Some have found ALCAR stacked with Coenzyme Q-10 has a profound effect on everything from mood to bipolar disorder. Especially combined with Alpha-Lipoic Acid.|
You can also get 500 mg Acetyl L-Carnitine, 100 mg BioEnhanced™ R-Lipoic Acid, 100 mg CoQ10, 10 mg BioPQQ®, and 2.5 mg BioPerine® in one dose of my favorite energy supplement Performance Lab® Energy.
Age-related cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s may want to up the dose to 1,500 mg per day.
Join The Discussion - 360 comments
Adjai
July 15, 2019
Hallo David
I am under treatment for thyroid.It possible to use Acetyl L-carnitine?
Thanks
David Tomen
July 15, 2019
Adjai, I’m hypothyroid and I use ALCAR 3-times per day with no problems.
Rob
July 10, 2019
Hi David,
Great site and wealth of information!
I’ve been taking ALCAR (750 mg), fish oil, CoQ10 (100 mg) and a multivitamin that contains 20 mg Choline Bitartrate in the morning with breakfast to combat brain fog and bolster energy. That simple stack (my first nootropic stack ever) has worked well thus far. I’ve experimented with AGPC (300 mg) off and on in the afternoon and before workouts and it’s been effective for enhanced mood and focus. I have CDP-Choline at the ready for improved work focus, upcoming exam prep and overall mood.
Can one cycle between AGPC one day and CDP the next? The days for which I’d take CDP (300 mg) are for exercise off-days and for more mental work. Or is it better to be consistent for a cycle of days to weeks with either choline source? Likewise, can you take either AGPC and CDP on top of the aforementioned morning stack, or would it be better spaced out?
Thanks for your insight!
David Tomen
July 10, 2019
Rob, your brain naturally produces and using CDP-Choline and Alpha GPC throughout the day. So you can use them both together although likely at a lower dose. Try that and see how it works for you.
If you want to experiment more, please see this: https://nootropicsexpert.com/5-ways-nootropics-can-increase-your-success-in-business-and-life/
Joe
June 24, 2019
I get MUCH better results (mental alertness/focus) with ALCAR after a meal with fat/protein. Seems to have a real kick
Been following a low carb diet, so have less body fat – taking it on an empty stomach on rising before exercise, seems to have a mild hypoglycemic effect (sweating) for me – have you come across any research/feedback
“ALCAR helps transport of fatty acids into mitochondria” – glycogen is a fatty acid – if your glycogen reserves are depleted/lower (due to a low carb/keto diet) and you take ALCAR on an empty stomach – what happens?
I have read some articles that ALCAR increase glucose disposal
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10877193 – is this relevant to the discussion
David Tomen
June 24, 2019
Joe, that clinical study is relevant to the discussion and your experience with ALCAR supports my research. But I haven’t come across nor experienced the hypoglycemic effect you talk about.
Vera
May 25, 2019
I wanted to leave a quick disclaimer here about ALCAR – there have been studies published on ALC triggering the onset of psychosis in Bipolar Disorder patients at as little as 500mg.
I took 400mg when I was unaware of this fact and it triggered a short manic episode that was not fun to come off of. Granted, my diagnosis is rapid cycling so my default is a bit unstable, but regardless I would be very careful with this stuff!!
David Tomen
May 27, 2019
I’ve seen reports of increases in seizure frequency if you have any kind of seizure disorder. If you can point me to the studies about ALCAR and Bipolar I’ll include them in the Side Effects section of this review Vera.
Mr.
April 25, 2019
Hi, Dave.
Originally, massive headaches I solved with sea salt- still I had headaches. So I used Alpha gpc- it worked mostly; leaving me with light headaches I can only describe as ‘walls of mist sectioning my brain. But even light cardio exercises drained my brain making it feel so empty it hurt.
So I introduced ALCAR to help metabolize fat after genetic testing, but now my Brian feels like jelly, dense and stiff like a sore bicep.
I have(a parental ignored) autistic spectrum disorder and have had extreme zinc and general vitamin/mineral deficiency for years. What do I do?
David Tomen
April 27, 2019
I’m certainly not an expert on autism. But overall I understand that it is a signalling problem in the brain. If that’s true then starting with the basics and working from there makes the most sense to me.
But first, please understand this is not intended as a diagnosis nor ‘prescription’ for what you should do.
I’m suggesting you may want to start with a high quality multi like the Performance Lab Whole-Food Multi. A high quality DHA supplement for Omega-3s. Then experiment with various methods of brain repair including Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Vinpocetine for blood flow, Alpha GPC for acetylcholine, L-Tyrosine for dopamine, Pine Bark Extract for an antioxidant, etc.
I’ve had enough questions about autism that I’ll spend more time researching it this year. And see if there are any specific nootropics that could help this disorder.
One other suggestion is use the search function here on Nootropics Expert for the keyword “autism” and see what else turns up.
Panayiotis
March 1, 2019
Thank u David!
Panayiotis
February 28, 2019
Hello i wanted to use some supplements for my depression antidepressants so many years don’t work very well.Any suggestions with specific supplements please?
David Tomen
February 28, 2019
It is not possible to recommend specific nootropics for depression because it depends on the root cause of the depression. Please see this post for more on how to get to the bottom of what is going on with you: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-depression/
Marcos
January 23, 2019
Hello I wanted to use ALCAR with CoQ10. In the text mention that it may increase seizure frequency. I’m diagnosed with epilepsy, but neve had a seizure disorder. The worst that happened was stop feeling my body for 1 minute (fully conscious). Is it safe to take it alcar IN THIS CASE?
David Tomen
January 23, 2019
Marcos, I’d be cautious about using ALCAR if you are dealing with epilepsy. It may cause seizures.