Levocarnitine

  • Brand Name : Carnitor
  • Drug Class : Metabolic & Endocrine, Other
  • Medical Author : Divya Jacob, Pharm. D.
  • Medical Reviewer : Sarfaroj Khan, BHMS, PGD Health Operations
  • _eael_post_view_count : 7

What Is Levocarnitine and How Does It Work?

Levocarnitine is a prescription medication used for treating carnitine deficiency and end-stage renal disease.

  • Levocarnitine is available under the following different brand names: Carnitor, carnitine

What Are Dosages of Levocarnitine?

Adult and pediatric dosage

Tablets

  • 250mg
  • 330mg
  • Capsule
  • 250mg

Oral solution

  • 1g/10mL

Injectable solution

  • 200mg/mL

Carnitine Deficiency

Adult and pediatric dosage

  • Tablet: 990 mg orally every 8-12 hours, up to 3 g/day
  • Oral solution: 1000 mg/day orally initially divided
  • 50 mg/kg IV bolus, THEN 50 mg/kg over next 24 hr (divided every 3-6 hours)

End-Stage Renal Disease

Adult and pediatric dosage

  • Initial dose: 10-20 mg/kg IV bolus infused over 2-3 minutes; administer into venous return line after a dialysis session

Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows: 

  • See “Dosages”

What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Levocarnitine?

Common side effects of Levocarnitine include:

  • upset stomach,
  • nausea,
  • vomiting,
  • diarrhea,
  • headache,
  • muscle pain,
  • weakness,
  • swelling of the hands, lower legs, or feet,
  • tingling skin, and
  • body odor (“fishy” smell).

Serious side effects of Levocarnitine include:

  • hives,
  • difficulty breathing,
  • swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat,
  • severe dizziness,
  • seizure, and
  • itching

Rare side effects of Levocarnitine include:

  • none 

This is not a complete list of side effects and other serious side effects or health problems that may occur as a result of the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may report side effects or health problems to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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