Supports Memory and Brain Function*
HOW PATIENTS MAY BENEFIT
- Promotes nervous system health*
PRODUCT DISCUSSION
PhysioLogics Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is similar in form to the amino acid L-Carnitine.
It is synthesized in the brain, liver, and kidneys by the enzyme carnitine
acetyltransferase and plays a role in the metabolism of food into energy.* The
acetyl group of Acetyl-L-Carnitine contributes to the production of the
neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is required for cognitive function.*
STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION
Structurally similar to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, ALCAR serves as the
precursor to acetyl coenzyme A. Animal studies have shown that ALCAR can support
neurons in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, facilitating learning and
memory functioning. Additionally, ALCAR promotes healthy levels of normal
shingomyelin accumulation to promote membrane fluidity and stability.*
ALCAR also plays a key role in cellular energy metabolism, transporting
long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial membranes where they are
utilized for ATP production, and shuttling small-chain and medium-chain fatty
acids out of the mitochondria in order to maintain healthy coenzyme A levels.
ALCAR helps maintain complex I and complex IV activity of the electron transport
chain in aged mitochondria to further facilitate the mitochondrial energy
supply.*
Finally, ALCAR may have antioxidant tendencies, supporting cells against
peroxidation and promoting levels of reduced Glutathione and Coenzyme Q10. This
property prevents lipid, protein, and DNA oxidative damage, which may further
support brain function.*
CLINICAL EVIDENCE
- Thirty subjects completed a 3-month double-blind trial in which they
received 1,000 mg of acetyl l-carnitine twice per day or an alternative
preparation. At the end of the trial, the results demonstrated significant
benefits in energy maintenance levels in those receiving acetyl lcarnitine
compared to the alternative preparation. (Tomassini et al, 2004)
- Twenty subjects participated in a 4-week observational study in which they
received 1,000 mg of acetyl l-carnitine twice per day. By week 3, a
significant improvement in nervous system function was observed compared
with baseline, based on questionnaire results. (Osio et al, 2006)
SUMMARY
PhysioLogics Acetyl-L-Carnitine helps promote cognitive function, memory, and
nervous system health, and supports mitochondrial energy production.*
SUGGESTED DOSAGE
For adults, take one (1) 1000 mg capsule up to two times daily, preferably with
a meal, or follow the advice of a health care professional.
REFERENCES
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on learning and memory performance of aged rats in simple and complex mazes.
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Calvani M, Carta A, Caruso G, et al. Action of acetyl-L-carnitine in
neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s disease. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1992;663:483-5.
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Parnetti L, Abate G, Bartorelli L, et al. Multicentre study of
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Spagnoli A, Lucca U, Menasce G, et al. Long-term acetyl-Lcarnitine
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Thal LJ, Carta A, Clarke WR, et al. A 1-year multicenter placebo-controlled
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Tomassini V, Pozzilli C, Onesti E, et al. Comparison of the effects of
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