In a nutshell
This article looked at the potential benefits of using L-carnitine following a heart attack.
Some background
L-carnitine is a protein involved in the processing of fatty acids in the body. Cells in our bodies use fatty acids to produce energy. During a heart attack, levels of L-carnitine in the heart muscle become depleted. This event is thought to contribute to the development of complications. It is hypothesized that supplementing L-carnitine in high doses as part of heart attack treatment may reduce the risk of heart rhythm disturbances (such as life-threatening ventricular fibrillation), angina and overall mortality. L-carnitine is a very safe substance used widely as a nutritional supplement.
Methods & findings
Researchers looked at studies already published in the medical literature and identified 3629 patients who had received L-carnitine after a heart attack. Results showed that L-carnitine treatment given in high enough doses (over 2g/day, optimally 6-9g/day) reduced overall mortality by 27%. Ventricular fibrillation was reduced by 65% and the development of angina was reduced by 40%. There was however no reduction in the risk of a new heart attack or the development of heart failure.
The bottom line
This article suggests that L-carnitine is effective in treating some of the complications of a heart attack. Being a safe substance, it may be added to already established treatments or given to patients who cannot tolerate other drugs.
The fine print
Despite the encouraging results, further large trials are needed to confirm the findings. L-carnitine may also be viewed by certain physicians as just a nutritional supplement.
Published By :
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
Date :
Jul 01, 2013
