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Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

David Tomen
Author:
David Tomen
Jill Corleone, RD
Fact Checked:
Jill Corleone, RD
10 minute read
Acetyl-L-Carnitine may reverse age-related cognitive decline, boost energy, and improve memory.

Key Takeaways

  1. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a synthesized version of L-Carnitine that enhances energy production, supports fat burning, and improves cognitive function.
  2. ALCAR facilitates fatty acid transport to mitochondria, boosts acetylcholine formation, and exhibits antioxidant properties.
  3. ALCAR benefits brain health by supporting mitochondrial function, protecting brain cells, and improving cerebral blood circulation.
  4. It has potential therapeutic effects on conditions such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, depression, and mild cognitive impairment.
  5. 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:

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.

High quality Acetyl L-Carnitine is found naturally in grass-fed beef and mutton.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.

L-Carnitine chemical structure
L-Carnitine

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]

Acetyl-L-Carnitine chemical structure
Acetyl-L-Carnitine

 

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.

  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. 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]

  1. 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 and brain.
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.

How does ALCAR make you feel?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 helps reduce chronic fatigueAcetyl-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]

Propionyl-L-Carnitine chemical structure
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 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
    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

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 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.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may also contain other affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

[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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Join The Discussion - 350 comments

Noah
February 21, 2021

Hey David,

I was wondering if I should take ALCAR or CDP Choline? I’m looking to add it to my stack and was just prescribed a stimulant. Which would be better to take? I don’t want to increase the acetylcholine too much.

Reply

    David Tomen
    February 21, 2021

    Noah, CDP-Choline requires L-Carnitine as a cofactor to make acetylcholine. It can’t do it on its own.

    Reply

Andy
February 14, 2021

Hey David, I’m thinking of using ALCAR and Alpha alpha-lipoic acid to try to repair my brain, however, I am 35, I eat a mixed diet too much dairy (e.g junk food chocolates potato chips) healthy foods yogurt occasionally fruit, avocados occasionally vegetables with dinner a few times a week 1 egg every day, mostly Chicken, red meat once a week twice if lucky

However, I want to make sure I can take this without any issues I wanna start maybe a bit low say 500mg ALCAR and 200MG Alpha once per day would this be to start out? I just want some advice before I take anything or do you think I get enough in my diet alone?

Thanks

Reply

    David Tomen
    February 15, 2021

    Andy, that’s a good start. I suggest changing “Alpha Lipoic Acid” to R-Lipoic Acid. And if you’re going to make the investment in these two you might as well get more “bang for your buck” and use Performance Lab Energy instead which I’ve described in this review: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-energy-supplements-to-buy/

    One thing I can promise you is you’ll never get this in “diet alone” in 2021. It just isn’t there.

    Reply

      Andy
      February 18, 2021

      I’ve ordered this hope this is the right stuff

      California Gold Nutrition, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, 500 mg

      to start off with do I need to take it with anything, again I’m wanting it for brain function mostly

      So I just want to make sure that this isn’t going to give me too much energy else where. What’s the best time to take it?

      Reply

        David Tomen
        February 19, 2021

        Andy, you definitely ordered ALCAR. But like most other manufacturers they include Silicon Dioxide and magnesium stearate in their supplement.

        I prefer avoiding toxic “other ingredients” whenever possible. In the future you may want to consider an ALCAR supplement like this instead: https://amzn.to/3s9Rj7P

        I suggest using 500 mg ALCAR morning and again at noon.

        Reply

        Satya
        June 7, 2021

        Hi Dave/What is your Opinion on the BIOSINT™ Brand of Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCI? Is it not Better?

        Reply

        David Tomen
        June 7, 2021

        Satya, Biosint™ is pharmaceutical grade Acetyl-L-Carnitine that is manufactured in Italy by Sigma Tau HealthSciences. This form of ALCAR is considered superior to general Acetyl-L-Carnitine because of its purity.

        Reply

Dave
February 8, 2021

David

I am
61…Good shape 6’2″ 220
Is it safe to take both
2 Grams of Propionyl and
2 Grams of Acetyl L- ALCar like in the test’ ?
Thanks
Dave

Reply

    David Tomen
    February 9, 2021

    Dave, it’s safe for most people. Only you can know how you react to supplements. But that is a normal dose for both.

    Reply

Bill Hunsinger
January 22, 2021

Did I miss a discussion on stability. What is your comment on the following quote.

I get mine in Performance Lab Energy and no stability warning;

Acetyl-L-carnitine may be taken with or without food. Acetyl-L-carnitine should be taken immediately after removing it from the blister package. It is extremely important that you take Acetyl-L-carnitine exactly as directed.

Reply

    David Tomen
    January 22, 2021

    Bill, where did you find that quote? I’ve been using ALCAR as a separate supplement 3-times daily for the last 13 years. Capsules out of a bottle.

    And Performance Lab Energy daily since it was released. And both work for me.

    Reply

Jason
January 16, 2021

HI David does ALCAR helps with muscle energy too or it’s just for brain?

Reply

    David Tomen
    January 16, 2021

    Jason, L-Carnitine is favored by athletes and dieters who want Carnitine for its fat-metabolizing benefits. But are not seeking any brain benefits. If you want it to cross the blood-brain barrier for its nootropic benefit you use ALCAR. Then you’d get the advantages of both.

    Reply

      Jason
      January 17, 2021

      oh thanks great, I thought it only benefit the brain, Thank You David

      Reply

Sven
December 7, 2020

I tried ALCAR today 500 mg single dose and it has definitely increased my anxiety, increased the number of thoughts coming to my head and I’ve felt my hearth bumps much more than usual. Why could it have had such an affect on me? Are those common side effects and should I look for an alternative or should I give it a try a few more days with smaller doses?

Reply

    David Tomen
    December 7, 2020

    Sven, those side effects are rare for ALCAR. But if you are experiencing this with only 500 mg then it sounds like ALCAR is the wrong supplement for you.

    Reply

      Sven
      December 8, 2020

      Do you need a choline source for ALCAR to work? Because I don’t have one, could that cause the issues or not?

      Reply

        David Tomen
        December 10, 2020

        Sven, you don’t need a ‘external’ choline source for ALCAR to work. It is a cofactor in the synthesis of acetylcholine. And that process using existing choline molecules already in your system.

        ALCAR also helps transport fatty acids across cell membranes into mitochondria for ATP synthesis. And transports the oxidized ‘garbage’ out of cells.

        Reply

      Max
      January 15, 2021

      Hello, for my ED which is the best day protocol with alcar and propionil l carnitine together? Thanks

      Reply

        David Tomen
        January 16, 2021

        Max, studies show (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15072869/) that propionyl-L-carnitine 2 g/day plus acetyl-L-carnitine 2 g/day works best for ED.

        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.

        Reply

wong
November 30, 2020

Hi david

Is Carnipure™ the purest form of L carnitine? I am trying to get the purest form of Acetyl-L-Carnitine. It seems the vitamin shoppe is currrently one and only selling this pure form. I am currently on Performance Lab energy and would like to supplement more of ALCAR. kindly advise any brands which i can buy. Thanks.

Reply

    David Tomen
    December 2, 2020

    Wong, Carnipure™ is made by the Swiss company Lonza and as far as I can tell like other forms of L-Carnitine it cannot cross the blood-brain barrier.

    That’s why I prefer Acetyl L-Carnitine for nootropic use because it can cross the blood-brain barrier. No company that I’m aware of make a patented version of this nootropic. So the best you can do is find an ALCAR supplement that has zero “other ingredients”. It should be plain ALCAR in a capsule with nothing else.

    Reply

Serge
October 25, 2020

Hello David
How often to use propionyl-l-carnitine?
Thanks

Reply

    David Tomen
    October 26, 2020

    Serge, depends on how much you are using and why you are using it. If for example, you plan on using 1,500 mg per day you would do that in 3 doses of 500 mg. Morning, noon and later in the afternoon.

    Reply

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