Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Also known as: ALCAR, ALC, acetylcarnitine, N-acetyl-L-carnitine
An acetylated form of carnitine that crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily than carnitine itself and donates acetyl groups for acetylcholine synthesis. It is the carnitine form used in nootropic and mood formulas, and a meta-analysis of trials at 1–3 g/day reported lower depressive symptom scores versus placebo. It is also included in mitochondrial and healthy-aging stacks.
Research summary
Supplies acetyl groups for acetylcholine and mitochondrial energy metabolism; supports neuronal fatty-acid oxidation.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 mg | 500–2,000 mg | 3,000 mg | — |
Cognitive and mood trials used 1–3 g/day, usually split into two or three doses; 500–2,000 mg is the consumer range. Taking it earlier in the day is common because some users report it is mildly energizing.
Source material: synthetic
As supplied: Acetyl-L-carnitine HCl is the usual raw material; about 81% acetyl-L-carnitine by mass.
Forms of Carnitine
| Form | Typical dose | Element % | Formats | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acetyl-L-Carnitine | 500–2,000 mg | — | Capsule, Powder, Tablet | mid |
| L-Carnitine L-Tartrate | 1,000–2,000 mg | — | Powder, Capsule, Tablet, Liquid | mid |
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Hygroscopic; the HCl salt is preferred for capsules and should be handled with humidity control. Sour, acidic taste in powders.
Formulation notes
Frequently paired with alpha-lipoic acid, CoQ10, and citicoline in mitochondrial and cognitive formulas.
Sources
Related ingredients
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
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Rhodiola Rosea Extract
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Theacrine (TeaCrine)
Sports performanceTheacrine is a purine alkaloid structurally related to caffeine, found in kucha tea and cupuaçu.
Typical: 50–200 mg
American Ginseng Extract
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Typical: 200–400 mg
Methylliberine (Dynamine)
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Typical: 100–150 mg