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October 15, 2022 By David Tomen 307 Comments

Acetyl-L-Carnitine

Acetyl-L-Carnitine may reverse age-related cognitive decline, and improve memory.

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 transport of fatty acids into mitochondria where they’re needed for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Fueling your cells and can boost physical and mental energy.
  • 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.

Table of Contents

  • Overview
  • L-Carnitine vs. Acetyl-L-Carnitine: What’s the Difference?
  • How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine Work in the Brain?
  • How things go bad
  • ALCAR benefits
  • How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine feel?
  • ALCAR Clinical Research
    • ALCAR helps with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
    • Acetyl-L-Carnitine slows rate of cognitive decline
    • ALCAR effective for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
    • Acetyl-L-Carnitine protects from oxidative damage of Ecstasy (MDMA)
    • ALCAR for Erectile Dysfunction?
  • ALCAR Recommended Dosage
  • ALCAR Side Effects
  • Types of ALCAR to buy
  • Nootropics Expert Recommendation

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 is favored by athletes and dieters who want Carnitine’s fat-metabolizing benefits. But are not seeking any brain benefits.

L-Carnitine
L-Carnitine

Acetyl-L-Carnitine: Is easier to absorb and used by your body than L-Carnitine. One study showed using 2 grams of ALCAR daily for 50 days boosted blood ALCAR levels by 43%.[i]

Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Acetyl-L-Carnitine

ALCAR does everything that L-Carnitine does, but can also cross the blood-brain barrier. In another study, researchers found that ALCAR 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.

  1. 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. ALCAR donates a “methyl group” to make acetylcholine.[iii]

Alzheimer’s-diseased brains show a 25% to 40% reduction in carnitine acetyltransferase, a brain enzyme that works with L-Carnitine & Acetyl-L-Carnitine.

This brain enzyme decline led researchers to link low ALCAR with low acetylcholine, and Alzheimer’s onset. They went on to suggest ALCAR as a viable therapy for brain regeneration.[iv]

  1. ALCAR promotes brain energy 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]

  • As ALCAR shuttles fatty acids into mitochondria, for the creation of ATP.
  • As ALCAR shuttles fatty acids out of mitochondria, it flushes out toxic byproducts.


ALCAR helps maintain mitochondrial health 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. So ALCAR 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 the neurodegenerative diseases of aging, including Alzheimer’s and dementia.

ALCAR benefits

Research from 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

ALCAR’s 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 depression.[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 or have Erectile Dysfunction. Within those specific groups, Acetyl-L-Carnitine helps with memory, mood, mental performance and the ability to get and maintain an erection.

ALCAR’s brain support and its ability to fuel 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 quick thinking.

ALCAR Clinical Research

In one study, researchers showed that ALCAR may have positive effects for depression and dementia.[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 neurons 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 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?

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 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 erectile dysfunction. Without the side effects of an enlarged prostate, better orgasms, more sexual desire and improved mood.[xvi]

Propionyl-L-Carnitine
Propionyl-L-Carnitine

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 implies that it’s fat-soluble for which 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.

Types of ALCAR to buy

  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine: L-Carnitine with an extra acetyl group. This version is more bioavailable and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier.
  • L-Carnitine: This is the standard form of 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.
    Together, these two help combat diabetes, boost energy production, 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, 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

ALCAR 750 mg is also included in the Performance Lab Energy nootropic stack. 

Nootropics Expert Recommendation

Acetyl-L-Carnitine 500 – 1,500 mg per day

Nootropics Expert Tested and Approved 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 Acetyl-L-Carnitine comes from red meat. And unless you eat a lot of great quality grass-fed beef or mutton you are likely deficient in ALCAR.

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 depressive disorders. 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 750 mg Acetyl L-Carnitine 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.

REFERENCES

[i] Rebouche C.J. “Kinetics, pharmacokinetics, and regulation of L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine metabolism.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences 2004 Nov;1033:30-41. (source)

[ii] Liu J., Head E., Kuratsune H., Cotman C.W., Ames B.N. “Comparison of the effects of L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine on carnitine levels, ambulatory activity, and oxidative stress biomarkers in the brain of old rats.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences2004 Nov;1033:117-31. (source)

[iii] White H.L., Scates P.W. “Acetyl-L-carnitine as a precursor of acetylcholine.” Neurochemical Research 1990 Jun;15(6):597-601. (source)

[iv] Kalaria R.N., Harik S.I. “Carnitine acetyltransferase activity in the human brain and its microvessels is decreased in Alzheimer’s disease.”Annals of Neurology 1992 Oct;32(4):583-6. (source)

[v] Berg J.M., Tymoczko J.L., Stryer L. Biochemistry. 5th edition. New York: W H Freeman; 2002. (source)

[vi] Berg J.M., Tymoczko J.L., Stryer L. Biochemistry. 5th edition. New York: W H Freeman; 2002. (source)

[vii] Costell M., O’Connor J.E., Grisolía S. “Age-dependent decrease of carnitine content in muscle of mice and humans.” Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 1989 Jun 30;161(3):1135-43. (source)

[viii] Gomez L.A., Heath S.D., Hagen T.M. “Acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation reverses the age-related decline in carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1) activity in interfibrillar mitochondria without changing the L-carnitine content in the rat heart” Mechanics of Aging Development 2012 Feb-Mar; 133(0): 99–106. (source)

[ix] Pettegrew J.W., Levine J., McClure R.J. “Acetyl-L-carnitine physical-chemical, metabolic, and therapeutic properties: relevance for its mode of action in Alzheimer’s disease and geriatric depression.” Molecular Psychiatry 2000 Nov;5(6):616-32. (source)

[x] Ferrari F., Gorini A., Villa R.F. “Functional proteomics of synaptic plasma membrane ATP-ases of rat hippocampus: effect of l-acetylcarnitine and relationships with Dementia and Depression pathophysiology.” European Journal of Pharmacology 2015 Jun 5;756:67-74. (source)

[xi] Taglialatela G., Navarra D., Olivi A., Ramacci M.T., Werrbach-Perez K., Perez-Polo J.R., Angelucci L. “Neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells stimulated by acetyl-L-carnitine arginine amide.” Neurochemical Research 1995 Jan;20(1):1-9. (source)

[xii] Montgomery S.A., Thal L.J., Amrein R. “Meta-analysis of double blind randomized controlled clinical trials of acetyl-L-carnitine versus placebo in the treatment of mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer’s disease” International Clinical Psychopharmacology 2003 Mar;18(2):61-71. (source)

[xiii] Spagnoli A. et. Al. “Long-term acetyl-L-carnitine treatment in Alzheimer’s disease.” Neurology. 1991 Nov;41(11):1726-32. (source)

[xiv] Tomassini V., Pozzilli C., Onesti E., Pasqualetti P., Marinelli F., Pisani A., Fieschi C. “Comparison of the effects of acetyl L-carnitine and amantadine for the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: results of a pilot, randomized, double-blind, crossover trial.” Journal of Neurological Science 2004 Mar 15;218(1-2):103-8. (source)

[xv] Alves E. et. Al “Acetyl-l-carnitine provides effective in vivo neuroprotection over 3,4-methylenedioximethamphetamine-induced mitochondrial neurotoxicity in the adolescent rat brain” Cellular Neuroscience Volume 158, Issue 2, 23 January 2009, Pages 514–523 (source)

[xvi] Cavallini G., Caracciolo S., Vitali G., Modenini F., Biagiotti G. “Carnitine versus androgen administration in the treatment of sexual dysfunction, depressed mood, and fatigue associated with male aging.”Urology 2004 Apr;63(4):641-6. (source)

[xvii] Liu J., Head E., Gharib A.M., Yuan W., Ingersoll R.T., Hagen T.M., Cotman C.W., Ames B.N. “Memory loss in old rats is associated with brain mitochondrial decay and RNA/DNA oxidation: partial reversal by feeding acetyl-L-carnitine and/or R-alpha -lipoic acid.” Proceeding of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 2002 Feb 19;99(4):2356-61. (source)

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About David Tomen

David has been researching nootropics and brain optimization for over 10 years. When he's not writing about nootropics, he's travelling the world (45 countries so far), sailing, diving, studying neuroscience or sitting under an umbrella on Miami Beach. More...

Comments

  1. Andrew Richardson says

    October 23, 2021 at 10:35 am

    Can you overdo ALCAR? so I’m doing it once a day in the morning at 500MG

    How long for it shows benefits, weeks, months, days

    I just worried I’ll overdose it if I take it in the morning then get feed a steak meal at dinner haha or does your body pee out what it does not need

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      October 23, 2021 at 11:26 am

      Andrew, you can overdo it with anything and it’s why dosage recommendations need to be followed for best results. And less chance of a bad things happening.

      The regular adult dosage for ALCAR is 500 mg 3-times per day. But I found that if I took the 3rd dose late afternoon it affected my sleep. So I only do two doses; morning and noon.

      The benefits of ALCAR are within 30 minutes. Take a look at how it works in your brain from the info above.

      Reply
  2. Lance says

    October 15, 2021 at 12:11 pm

    Hello again, bear with me whilst I set up this question.

    To boost cAMP I’ll be taking:
    900 mg Artichoke Extract
    20mg Coleus Forskohlii (containing 4mg Forskolin)

    You recommend taking 200mg ALCAR per 1mg Forskolin, so 800mg ALCAR total (to counteract Forskolin’s effect on Acetylcholinesterase).

    I’ll also be taking 1000mg L-Carnosine (to boost L-Carnosine). To counteract the byproduct lipofuscin you recommend taking the recommended doses of ALCAR and DMAE, so:
    ALCAR 500 – 1500mg
    DMAE 100 – 200mg (or 270 – 540mg DMAE bitartrate)

    Presumably, the best dosages to flush lipofuscin are towards the upper end of the scale, so 1500mg ALCAR and 200mg DMAE.

    To counteract the negatives of DMAE you recommend taking a good source of choline, so 250 – 500mg Citicoline. As I’ll be using the upper dosage of DMAE it only makes sense to take the upper dosage of Citicoline, so 500mg.

    I would primarily like to take ALCAR for the benefits listed in this article but appreciate it’s also needed when taking Forskolin and L-Carnosine. For its own benefits you recommend taking 500 – 1500mg.

    My question: How much ALCAR will I need, accounting for the above?

    Will I need:
    800mg (for Forskolin use)
    + 1500mg (for L-Carnosine use)
    + 500mg (for its own benefits)
    = 2800mg total?

    I understand that nutrient RDA/RDI/AI/etc. is not calculated as the sum of what is needed for each process it’s used in, so by that logic would 1500mg total of ALCAR be adequate for Forskolin use, L-Carnosine use and for its own benefits?

    Alternatively, because I need it specifically for Forskolin use and L-Carnosine use as well will I need a little extra but not quite as much as 2800mg; so, say, 2000mg ALCAR?

    I have, of course, have skimmed over the fact that my body may not tolerate these supplements or the dosages stated. I intend to phase them in slowly and separately, starting at low dosages and gradually increasing them to their “ideal” amounts. The above is to gain a (simple) theoretical understanding of how much ALCAR would be “ideal”, given its many uses.

    Many thanks.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      October 15, 2021 at 2:54 pm

      Lance, I think there is some confusion going on here. DMAE is used to eliminate the lipofuscin which is a byproduct produced when supplementing with L-Carnosine. Carnosine is NOT the same thing as Carnitine (i.e., ALCAR).

      You have several things going on here. Supporting Artichoke Extract’s affect on acetylcholinesterase (with ALCAR), getting rid of lipofuscin while using L-Carnosine (with DMAE), and supporting the use of DMAE and its effects on choline (with CDP-Choline or PC).

      See my individual reviews for specifics on maximum dosages. 2000 mg of ALCAR is too much.

      Reply
  3. Fester Croffit says

    October 12, 2021 at 12:04 pm

    Hi Dave, I’m new to nootropics and wanted to run something by you. A little background: I have an attention and concentration deficit, but not “technically” ADHD. 40 years old. Recently found out I have low testosterone as well. Will be addressing that with an upcoming appointment with MD. I have ordered some supplements to help with concentration/focus and energy/stamina throughout the day. I am trying to start my own little stack. Budget prohibits doing more than a little dabbling currently. I am starting with NAC, ALCAR, Alpha GPC, noopept, and NALT. The main goal out of the supplements is to improve focus, be less easily distracted, and combat daytime fatigue. Thanks for any input you can give.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      October 12, 2021 at 3:34 pm

      Fester, what you have so far is a great start. The only missing elements are a high quality multivitamin and Omega-3 supplement. But don’t get them unless you can afford something your body and brain can use. Otherwise you’re wasting your money.

      Reply
      • Fester Croffit says

        October 16, 2021 at 7:17 am

        Thanks for the reply. I am already on a good quality while food based multivitamin. I plan to get an omega 3 supplement next. Any recommendations? Thanks again for all your great info.

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          October 16, 2021 at 1:48 pm

          Fester, this is now the Omega-3 supplement I prefer: https://bit.ly/3q98chL and what I recommend. You are looking for an Omega3 supplement that is pure, does not have any additives, has not gone rancid, and provides 1,000 mg DHA per day in 2 or 3 gelcaps. EPA should be less and in this type of supplement would be around 450 – 500 mg compared to 1,000 mg DHA.

          Reply
      • Fester Croffit says

        October 16, 2021 at 7:27 am

        Forgot to mention, since starting the stack mentioned above a couple days ago, I have developed some joint and muscle pain in my shoulders and arms. Not currently lifting weights or engaging in any activity to cause it, staying pretty well hydrated. Any thoughts on if any of those would be causing this effect?

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          October 16, 2021 at 1:44 pm

          Fester, I do not see anything on your list that could cause muscle pain. That is usually caused by a Vitamin D deficiency.

          Reply
          • Fester Croffit says

            October 16, 2021 at 3:04 pm

            Thanks for the omega 3 recommendation. As to the muscle pain, I’m attributing it to onboarding, for lack of a better term, of the new supplements. I’ve been taking 5,000IU of vitamin D for years along with some B vitamins, zinc, and a couple other supplements such as butterbur for migraines (which works well) and a metabolic blend from doterra called mito 2 max. Thanks again for the info. Your website is a goldmine of information.

          • David Tomen says

            October 16, 2021 at 5:39 pm

            Fester, then it could be an interaction between one of the supplements you mentioned and the drugs and other supplements you are using that produces the muscle pain. Because none of them on their own causes that as far as I know. And from all the research I’ve done on each.

  4. Matt says

    October 4, 2021 at 10:29 pm

    Hi,

    What is the half life of ALCAR? Some sources say 1-4 hours, while others say 29-36 hours. Which is correct?

    Thanks.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      October 5, 2021 at 5:01 pm

      Matt, that is an excellent question and I have not been able to find a definitive answer to it. So I take ALCAR twice per day and have for many years. And that works great! It does not make any sense to me to go by the 29 hour half-life claim because that would mean using ALCAR every 2nd or 3rd day.

      Reply
  5. Andy says

    September 30, 2021 at 7:38 am

    I’m taking ALCAR now

    however I’m only taking it once per day at dinner time,
    But if I have any type of red meat should I avoid taking the ALCAR at the same time? I’m not sure if ALCAR is in chicken which I eat a lot of or does this not matter?

    I like to do my Nootropic slowly and in small amounts to see what is best for me first

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      October 2, 2021 at 6:41 pm

      Andy, you may be able to get some carnitine from food. But I haven’t met a chicken or cow yet who was able to produce Acetyl l-Carnitine. And it is that version we use as a nootropic because it can cross the blood-brain barrier. But not so with regular carnitine.

      Reply
  6. André Leroux says

    September 23, 2021 at 2:38 pm

    Dear David,
    is optimized carnitine from LEF

    Life Extension, Optimized Carnitine

    Acetyl L-Carnitine HCI 800 mg
    Acetyl L-Carnitine Arginate Di-HCI 300 mg
    Glycine Propionyl L-Carnitine HCI 300 mg

    better than plain acetyl-l-carnitine? Would you recommend it?
    Best regards
    André

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      September 24, 2021 at 1:11 pm

      André, scroll up to the sub-title “ALCAR for Erectile Dysfunction?“. The Life Extension formula is similar to that which was used in that clinical study.

      Reply
      • André Leroux says

        September 24, 2021 at 5:29 pm

        thank you, David

        Reply
  7. Andrew Richardson says

    September 11, 2021 at 11:22 am

    MRM, Nutrition, Acetyl L-Carnitine

    Is the a good brand, dunno why it has B6 in it would that matter taking that each day at 2mg

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      September 11, 2021 at 4:14 pm

      Andrew, the label looks good as they do not use any toxic “other ingredients”. But I do not know the company so cannot comment on their reputation.

      Reply
      • Andrew Richardson says

        September 13, 2021 at 3:00 am

        So when I take this should I take it with say My eggs in the morning when I first eat? as it needs choline to work better?

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          September 13, 2021 at 4:48 pm

          Andrew, the choline you get from eggs requires the presence of carnitine to produce acetylcholine. But ALCAR also has other jobs to do including transporting fatty acids into mitochondria for ATP production. And taking the toxins back out of the cell.

          Reply
  8. Jason says

    September 3, 2021 at 4:19 am

    Hi David, why do I feel “spacey” for a couple of hours every time I take ALCAR? Is there any remedy or should I just stop taking it?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      September 5, 2021 at 11:26 am

      Jason, feeling spacey after using ALCAR is not a usual side effect and I’m not sure what could be causing it. Try adding a choline supplement like Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline and see if that helps. But if not then I would quit using it

      Reply
  9. Jesse says

    August 25, 2021 at 7:48 pm

    Hi David,

    As “ALCAR promotes the transportation of fatty acids into the mitochondria ”

    To maximize the benefit of ALCAR, should I take it with fat/oil ? especially long chain fatty acids.

    Best regards,
    Jesse

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      August 26, 2021 at 5:44 pm

      Jesse, ALCAR is water soluble so can be taken with just water on a empty stomach and is extremely bioavailable. It’ll do its job with the available fatty acids in your system. I highly doubt using extra healthy fats will help it “work better”. But that is assuming you are already following a reasonably healthy diet which includes healthy fats.

      Reply
  10. Chris says

    August 25, 2021 at 10:31 am

    Hi David,

    ALCAR seems to reduce Lipofuscin. Just take a look at this study:

    “Acetyl-L-carnitine enhances Na(+), K(+)-ATPase glutathione-S-transferase and multiple unit activity and reduces lipid peroxidation and lipofuscin concentration in aged rat brain regions”

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11239702/

    It’s not much, but I REALLY appreciate your work and gained a LOT from your website, so I try to give something back if I can….

    All the best + God + Jesus bless,
    Chris

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      August 26, 2021 at 6:12 pm

      Chris, great find and thank you. I did not know that. Much appreciated.

      Reply
  11. Benjamin says

    July 20, 2021 at 10:54 am

    Will ALCAR increase acetylcholine?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      July 21, 2021 at 3:47 pm

      Benjamin, ALCAR is a cofactor in the synthesis of acetylcholine. It cannot increase acetylcholine on its own. It needs either Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline along with Vitamin B1 (thiamine) and Vitamin B5 (Pantethine).

      Reply
      • Benjamin says

        July 22, 2021 at 4:29 am

        all these supplements have heaps of other ingredients in them, I find a few without them which is great however after reading your page on toxic other ingredients I’m a bit weary, I’m a bit of a health nut here but what foods would provide a good source of acetylcholine if I cannot afford to purchase all these supplemtns

        Cheers

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          July 22, 2021 at 5:07 pm

          Benjamin, food does not contain acetylcholine. It contains choline which is needed for the synthesis of acetylcholine in your brain. You get choline from eating organ meats, dairy and wheat germ but not nearly enough choline for what you need as a nootropic.

          Reply
  12. Carlos Souza says

    July 7, 2021 at 2:03 pm

    Hello David.
    If I’m not elderly or got Erectile Dysfunction, still worth it to take ALCAR… With alpha GPC for example?
    Sorry if this is a stupid question, I’m new.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      July 7, 2021 at 4:22 pm

      Carlos, ALCAR with Alpha GPC will produce acetylcholine which you need for memory. But ALCAR stacked with L-Citrulline will give you a harder erection no matter your age.

      Reply
  13. Samuel says

    June 8, 2021 at 9:45 am

    Hi, as I was experimenting I discovered Berberine helped with erectile dysfunction a good bit. And I see here that ALCAR with Propionyl-L-Carnitine helps too, so I was going to start trying those.You say 2g per day of each.
    So for ED purposes would you split that into 1g of each twice a day? 500mg of each 4x a day? All at once or some other split?
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      June 8, 2021 at 5:47 pm

      Samuel, a study (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15072869/) was conducted with 120 men who were given 2 grams of Propionyl-L-Carnitine plus 2 grams of Acetyl-L-Carnitine per day for 6 months taken in a single dose. That combo was significantly effective for ED. The authors of the study noted there were zero side effects. And the guys went back to baseline as soon as they quit supplementation.

      Reply
  14. FCB says

    June 7, 2021 at 10:08 am

    I am on SSRI medicine (zoloft). I want to know if I can take Acetyl L-Carnitine and Zoloft and will there be a dangerous interaction?
    Thank you in advance for your answer.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      June 7, 2021 at 5:33 pm

      FCB, Acetyl L-Carnitine is not contraindicated with SSRIs.

      Reply
      • FCB says

        June 8, 2021 at 9:02 am

        May I combine it with N-acetyl cysteine as well?
        Zoloft + ALCAR + N-acetyl cysteine?

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          June 8, 2021 at 5:26 pm

          FCB, they are not contraindicated as far as I know.

          Reply
  15. James Phillips says

    May 21, 2021 at 6:46 pm

    I have been taking alcar and msm for about 2 weeks. That combination definitely helps with regrowth. I have male pattern baldness hair growing in very similar to minoxidil. Through trial and error I am taking both every other day. That seems to be working good for me. After watching this video I ordered propionyl l carnatine from Amazon.

    Reply
  16. Wong says

    May 21, 2021 at 3:15 pm

    Hi David

    Do you have any recommendation for Lipo-Carn® Standalone products to recommend?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      May 21, 2021 at 5:12 pm

      Wong, I do not have any Lipo-Carn® recommendations because there doesn’t seem to be any around in the USA. It is made by a UK company and you may be able to find some in the UK.

      Reply
      • Wong says

        May 22, 2021 at 8:06 am

        Hi. Thanks for the reply. So what is difference between performance lab energy and Lipo-Carn® ? Both contain Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Acetyl-L-Carnitine? Is Lipo-carn is just a patented product?

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          May 22, 2021 at 5:32 pm

          Wong, Lipo-Carn is just a patented formulation combining Alpha Lipoic Acid with ALCAR.

          Performance Lab Energy also contains CoQ10 and PQQ for a well-rounded and potent way to produce cellular energy. Including growing new mitochondria thanks to PQQ.

          Reply
  17. Ditmar says

    May 8, 2021 at 8:56 am

    Hey David, is this something that could be taken everyday? It induces a very tunnel vision kind of focus state in me with a bit of anxiety which is awesome but could it not be neurotoxic as well?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      May 8, 2021 at 6:02 pm

      Ditmar, if you is your reaction to ALCAR then I suggest you reduce you dose. Because while it should improve focus it shouldn’t to that degree. Especially if it is also causing anxiety.

      I’ve been using ALCAR at least twice per day for the last 14 years and only experiencing the benefit. So yes it is safe to use long-term but check how much you are using.

      Reply
  18. Mick says

    April 17, 2021 at 7:51 am

    Ok, thanks David.

    Reply
  19. Lana says

    April 12, 2021 at 10:55 am

    Hi David! I read on Reddit a comment from a man who was thinking his ALCAR was responsible for the increased hair shedding. Have you ever heard of that? I have problem with hair shedding, that is why I ask. Thank you

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      April 15, 2021 at 5:46 pm

      Lana, on the contrary ALCAR or L-Carnitine has been shown to promote hair health and growth. Do a search for “Acetyl L-Carnitine and hair loss” and you’ll see what I mean.

      Reply
  20. Mick says

    April 10, 2021 at 8:23 pm

    Hi David,
    I would like to ask you about third dose of ALCAR. Is it better to take it in the evening or before bed?
    Is it possible it can keep me awake? And also I would like to ask you about CBD oil and ALCAR.
    CBD oil always worked well for me, but the last time I took it I didn’t like the effect. I experienced something like a brain fog. The only nootropic that I added to my stack recently is ALCAR.
    Do you think maybe ALCAR and CBD Oil don’t go together for me?
    Thanks.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      April 16, 2021 at 5:19 pm

      Mick, ALCAR is funny that way because it can have a different effect on each person. I used to use a 3rd dose of ALCAR in my late afternoon stack. But found lately that is was having a bad effect on sleep. So stopped using my late 3rd ALCAR dose.

      It’s not that CBD Oil and ALCAR don’t go together. It is whether they work for you. Only you can decide that.

      Reply
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