If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you
should not use carnitine without first talking to your healthcare provider. AZT
In a laboratory study, L-carnitine supplements protected
muscle tissue against toxic side effects from treatment with AZT, a medication
used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency
syndrome (AIDS). Additional studies are needed to confirm whether L-carnitine
would also have this effect in people. Doxorubicin
Treatment with L-carnitine may protect heart cells
against the toxic side effects of doxorubicin, a medication used to treat
cancer, without reducing the effectiveness of this chemotherapy agent. Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin, a strong medication used for severe
acne, can cause abnormalities in liver function, measured by a blood test, as
well as elevations in cholesterol and muscle pain and weakness. These symptoms
are similar to those seen with carnitine deficiency. Researchers in Greece
showed that a large group of people who had side effects from isotretinoin got
better when taking L-carnitine compared to those who took a placebo. Valproic Acid
The anticonvulsant medication valproic acid may
lower blood levels of carnitine and can cause carnitine deficiency. Taking
L-carnitine supplements may prevent deficiency and may also reduce the side
effects of valproic acid. |
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Copyright © 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc
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to any person or property as a matter of product liability, negligence, or
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guide to self-medication. The reader is advised to discuss the information
provided here with a doctor, pharmacist, nurse, or other authorized healthcare
practitioner and to check product information (including package inserts)
regarding dosage, precautions, warnings, interactions, and contraindications
before administering any drug, herb, or supplement discussed
herein.
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