Abstract
Recent research has clarified many of the clinical applications of L-Carnitine and its related compounds, leading into new areas of potential use. Promising therapeutic applications of an ester form of carnitine, acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) are derived from observations that this compound readily crosses the blood brain barrier and improves neuronal energetics and repair mechanisms while modifying acetylcholine production in the CNS. Studies show that HIV infection and CFIDS, Alzheimer’s dementia and depression of the elderly, and diabetic neuropathies may respond positively to ALC administration. Effects of ALC on ethyl alcohol (ETOH) metabolism have been observed and hold significant potential in preventing sequelae of habitual ETOH abuse. (Alt Med Rev 1996;1(2):85-93)