L-Carnitine, also known as levocarnitine, is an amino acid derivative that plays an important role in cellular energy production. L-Carnitine helps transport long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they can be used by the body as a source of energy. Because of this role, L-Carnitine may help support energy levels, muscle function, exercise performance, metabolic health, and fat metabolism when combined with appropriate nutrition and physical activity.

Empower L-Carnitine 30 is supplied as one 30 mL vial at a concentration of:

500 mg/mL

The injection is recommended to be given intramuscularly as directed by your provider.

What is L-Carnitine?

Carnitine is a naturally occurring compound made in the body, primarily in the liver and kidneys, and is also obtained through dietary sources. It is stored mainly in skeletal muscle, with smaller amounts found in the heart, brain, and other tissues.

L-Carnitine’s primary role is to help move fatty acids into the mitochondria, which are the energy-producing structures inside cells. Once inside the mitochondria, fatty acids can be broken down and used for energy. This process is especially important for tissues with high energy demands, including muscle and heart tissue.

Potential Benefits of L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine supplementation may help support:

• Energy production

• Fat metabolism

• Muscle function

• Exercise performance and recovery

• Reduction of fatigue in some patients

• Metabolic health

• Weight-management efforts when used alongside appropriate diet and physical activity

L-Carnitine is not a stimulant and should not be viewed as a stand-alone weight-loss medication. Its role is best understood as metabolic support, particularly for patients whose provider determines that supplementation may be appropriate.

Dosing Levels

Most patients are recommended to start at the low dosing level and adjust only as directed by their provider based on individual response and tolerability.

Low:
1 mL, or 100 units, equal to 500 mg injected once weekly

Mid:
1 mL, or 100 units, equal to 500 mg injected two times weekly

High:
1 mL, or 100 units, equal to 500 mg injected three times weekly

Storage

L-Carnitine vials should be stored according to the instructions provided with the medication. Depending on the specific product instructions, storage may be at room temperature, 20–25°C / 68–77°F, or refrigerated, 2–8°C / 36–46°F.

Keep the vial in its original packaging, protect it from light, and do not freeze it. If you are unsure whether your medication has been stored properly, contact the pharmacy or your provider before using it.

BUD: Up to 90 days

Possible Side Effects

All medications and supplements may cause side effects. Many people have no side effects or only mild side effects.

The most commonly reported side effects of L-Carnitine include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Abdominal cramps

• Diarrhea

• Stomach discomfort

• Headache

• Mild body odor or fish-like odor

• Localized injection site discomfort, redness, itching, swelling, or irritation

Gastrointestinal side effects may be more likely when larger doses are used or when doses are administered rapidly. If you experience uncomfortable side effects, contact your provider for guidance.

Serious Side Effects

Stop using L-Carnitine and seek medical attention right away if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, or trouble swallowing.

Patients with a history of seizures should use L-Carnitine only under the guidance of their provider, as seizures have been reported in patients receiving levocarnitine, including patients with and without a prior seizure history. Patients with a known seizure disorder may experience an increase in seizure frequency or severity.

Patients taking warfarin or other coumarin anticoagulants should notify their provider before using L-Carnitine, as increases in INR have been reported and additional monitoring may be needed.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Use during pregnancy should be limited to situations where the potential benefit clearly outweighs potential risk. Unnecessary exposure during breastfeeding should be avoided unless your provider determines that treatment is appropriate.