Compound Reference

L-Carnitine

An amino-acid derivative in fatty-acid transport

Metabolic researchEvidence: mixed humanSupplement / approved (deficiency)
Approved drug — used here for education. This is an approved/prescription medicine in at least one region; "research"/compounded versions sold as chemicals are a separate, riskier thing. Not medical advice.

What it is

L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino-acid derivative (not a peptide) essential for transporting fatty acids into mitochondria to be burned for energy.

Proposed mechanism

It shuttles long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane (the carnitine shuttle). Whether supplementation enhances fat loss in people with normal carnitine levels is not well supported.1

State of the evidence

Regulatory & status

References

  1. L-carnitine metabolism & supplementation (literature). PubMed: L-carnitine

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For educational and research purposes only. This content is not medical advice. L-Carnitine is a dietary supplement / prescription for deficiency; not a treatment claim. Free Peptide University does not sell compounds.