Description: Levocarnitine, also known as L-carnitine, is an amino acid derivative that is naturally produced by the body. It is a vital substance required for energy metabolism. It is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water.

Indication: Levocarnitine is primarily indicated for the treatment of carnitine deficiency, which can be caused by certain genetic disorders, inborn errors of metabolism, or certain medical conditions like end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in patients on dialysis. Carnitine deficiency can lead to various symptoms, including muscle weakness, cardiomyopathy (a weakened and enlarged heart), and hypoketotic hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It is also used to prevent and treat carnitine deficiency in people whose bodies cannot properly use carnitine from their diet.

Mechanism of Action: Levocarnitine’s primary function is to facilitate the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, which are the “powerhouses” of the cell. Fatty acids are a major source of energy for the body, but they cannot enter the mitochondria on their own. Levocarnitine acts as a carrier molecule, forming a complex with fatty acids that allows them to cross the inner mitochondrial membrane. Once inside, the fatty acids are broken down through a process called beta-oxidation to produce energy. By enabling this process, levocarnitine helps the body generate energy, particularly in tissues with high-energy demands like the heart and skeletal muscles. It also helps to remove excess acyl groups and toxic metabolites from the cells.