POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

  • Injection site reaction (redness, swelling, burning)
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal cramping
  • Diarrhea
  • Fishy body odor (usually only at higher doses)
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Headache
  • Increased appetite (not common)
  • Hypoglycemia, particularly in diabetics and those on insulin or glucose-lowering drugs
  • May increase seizure frequency in epileptics

INTERACTIONS

  • Use caution when stacking with caffeine or other stimulants
  • L-carnitine can antagonize thyroid hormone activity and may reduce the effectiveness of thyroid replacement; used therapeutically in hyperthyroidism
  • There is an increased chance of hypoglycemia when used with diabetic medications such as insulin, metformin, and GLP-1 agonists
  • Use with other fat metabolism agents or stimulants may cause overstimulation, increased heart rate, or jitteriness

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Do not use L-Carnitine if you…

  • Have cardiovascular disease
  • Have a heart arrhythmia
  • Suffer from uncontrolled hypertension
  • Are sensitive to stimulants
  • Have anxiety or panic disorders
  • Are epileptic
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

DOSING AND OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

8 week cycle followed by 4-8 week washout period

If you take while fasted, in the morning or prior to cardio, there will be an increase in fat utilization.

If taken with carbs, L-carnitine will be driven into muscle cells, improving endurance and recovery, while building the capacity to burn fat later.

Absorption drops at higher doses: split doses in order to avoid diminished bioavailability

Works best in the morning and/or 30-60 minutes prior to cardio

INTRAMUSCULAR administration in the glute or thigh; subcutaneous injection may be used but is not preferred

Standard Protocol (Fat Loss/Performance Enhancement)

100 units (500mg) per injection, 1-3 times per week

Maximum Protocol

100-200 units (500-1,000mg) per injection, 3-5 times per week