Levo-carnitine
Information about Levo-carnitine
Levo-carnitine uses
Levo-carnitine is used in the treatment of carnitine deficiency.
How levo-carnitine works
Levocarnitine belongs to the class of medications called as amino acid derivative. It works by improving the low levels of carnitine in the body.
Common side effects of levo-carnitine
Palpitations, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Headache, Increased calcium level in blood, High blood pressure, Vertigo, Gastrointestinal disorder, Weakness, Back pain, Chest pain, Fever, Injection site reaction, Tachycardia, Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), Dark colored stool, Electrolyte imbalance, Leg cramps, Dizziness, Respiratory disorder, Eye disorder, Taste change, Urinary tract infection
Available Medicine for Levo-carnitine
Expert advice for Levo-carnitine
- Take during or immediately after the meals and consume slowly.
- Take at evenly spaced times throughout the day (every 3 or 4 hours).
- Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly during levocarnitine treatment.
- Do not take this drug if you are allergic to levocarnitine or any of its ingredients.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Levo-carnitine
Levo-carnitine
Q. When can a carnitine deficiency occur?
Carnitine deficiency may be of two types, primary and secondary. Primary is genetic and may show symptoms by five years of age. Whereas, secondary may occur due to certain disorders like kidney problems (chronic kidney failure) and use of antibiotics that reduces its absorption and increases its excretion.
Q. Does warfarin have any effect on Levo-carnitine?
In some patients, warfarin when taken along with Levo-carnitine may increase the time required for the formation of blood clot. Hence, before starting Levo-carnitine, inform your doctor if you are taking warfarin.
Q. Is Levo-carnitine a steroid?
Levo-carnitine is not a steroid. It contains Levo-carnitine which is a type of protein (made from the amino acids lysine and methionine). It helps in transporting fats to the cells, where fats get metabolized in order to produce energy. It is used to treat primary and secondary Levo-carnitine deficiency.