Indications
Carnitor generically known as Levocarnitine is a medication used to prevent and treat low blood levels of carnitine in individuals who have carnitine deficiency. It works by supplementing the body with carnitine - a natural substance that helps convert the fats we eat into energy. Carnitine is involved in the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria of cells, where they are used for energy production.
Levocarnitine is a medication used to treat or prevent a deficiency of carnitine. It is a dietary supplement that is typically made from meat and dairy products in the body. Levocarnitine may be prescribed to individuals undergoing hemodialysis or those who do not produce enough carnitine. It may also be used to modify the effects of defective fatty acid metabolism.
Uses and Dosage
Carnitor is usually taken orally in tablets and can be taken with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, taking it with food may help. The tablet form of Carnitor should be swallowed whole without crushing or chewing. Take Carnitor tablet at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. The dosage and frequency of Carnitor may vary depending on the individual's condition, age, weight, and response to treatment.
The typical dosing for Levocarnitine (Carnitor) may vary by individual depending on their medical condition and history. However, as per the search results, the following dosing guidelines are common:
- Adults: usually take 3 tablets orally two or three times a day, with each tablet containing 330 mg of levocarnitine.
- Infants and children (dose based on weight): typically start with a total daily dose of 50 mg/kg of body weight taken orally, with a maximum daily dose of 3 grams.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Carnitor (Levocarnitine):
- Body odor ("fishy" smell)
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Swelling of the hands, lower legs, or feet
- Tingling skin
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Carnitor (Levocarnitine):
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Itching
- Seizure
- Severe dizziness
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
Form and Strength
Carnitor (Levocarnitine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Carnitor: Tablet
- 330 mg
Caution
- Levocarnitine may cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, and fatigue as side effects.
- It should be used with caution during pregnancy and only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
- It is not known whether it passes into human breast milk, so it should be used with caution while breastfeeding and only under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- It should be used with caution in individuals with kidney disease or hepatic dysfunction.
- Levocarnitine may interact with other medications and supplements, including Warfarin.
- It may interact with medications used to treat seizures or thyroid disorders.
- Carnitor may increase the risk of bleeding in individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications.
- Carnitor may interact with medications used to treat certain heart conditions, such as verapamil and diltiazem.
- It should be used with caution in individuals with hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, or a history of seizures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Carnitor used for?
Carnitor is used to prevent and treat low blood levels of carnitine in individuals who have carnitine deficiency. It is also used to treat primary systemic carnitine deficiency, a rare genetic disorder that makes it difficult for the body to use fats for energy.
How is Carnitor taken?
Carnitor is available in tablet or oral solution forms and is taken orally. It is important to follow a doctor's instructions carefully regarding dosage and any necessary dosage adjustments.
Can Carnitor be taken during pregnancy?
Carnitor should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Can Carnitor be taken while breastfeeding?
It is not known whether Carnitor passes into human breast milk. Consult with a healthcare provider before using Carnitor while breastfeeding.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Carnitor?
If you miss a dose of Carnitor, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/carnitor-drug.htm
- https://www.goodrx.com/levocarnitine/what-is
- https://www.carnitor.com/
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/carnitor.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=d2133bc3-9c15-48bd-8b16-b8995a6a14cd
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4488/carnitor-oral/details
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