Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
Acetyl-L-carnitine. Dietary Supplement, amino acid derivative / nootropic.
This page describes what Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is and its known risks. It is not medical advice and not a guide to using it. Many of these substances are prescription-only or illegal to use without a prescription. Speak to a doctor.
- Class
- Dietary Supplement
- Legal status
- Over-the-counter (unrestricted)
- Half-life
- ~4 hours
- Liver strain
- None at typical doses
- Kidney strain
- None at typical doses
- Converts to estrogen
- None
- Suppresses natural hormones
- Not typically
Medical uses
- Investigational for neuropathy and cognitive decline
What it does in the body
Neurological
- Crosses into the brain more readily than plain L-carnitine
- May support mood and mental energy (evidence modest)
Forms, half-life and detection
| Form | Half-life | Reported detection window |
|---|---|---|
| Oral (capsule) | ~4 hours | N/A (not a banned substance) |
Side effects and health risks
Gastrointestinal
- Nausea or upset at high doses
Mood and mind
- Restlessness in some people
Related compounds
- Creatine Monohydrate
- Creatine Hydrochloride (HCl)
- L-Glutamine
- GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)
- Dextrose
- Melatonin
- BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)
- EAAs (Essential Amino Acids)
Questions
What is the half-life of Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)?
About ~4 hours. Half-life is the time for the level in the blood to fall by half.
How long is Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) detectable?
Testing windows of N/A (not a banned substance) are reported, depending on the test and the person.
Is Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) legal?
Over-the-counter (unrestricted). Laws differ by country and change; check the rules where you live.
What blood tests matter with Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)?
Ask a doctor which tests suit you.
What are the side effects of Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)?
Gastrointestinal: nausea or upset at high doses. Mood and mind: restlessness in some people.
For information only, not medical advice. MyoStats is a tracking tool used at your own discretion. Speak to a doctor before changing your training, diet, medication or anything you take.