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Levocarnitine

Generic name: levocarnitine [ LEE-voe-KAR-ni-teen ]
Brand names: Carnitor, L-Carnitine, L-Carnitine Plus, Carnitor SF
Dosage forms: injectable solution (200 mg/mL), oral capsule (250 mg; 500 mg), oral solution (100 mg/mL), ... show all 4 dosage forms
Drug class: Nutraceutical products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 12, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is levocarnitine?

Levocarnitine is used to treat carnitine deficiency.

Levocarnitine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Levocarnitine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Levocarnitine may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of levocarnitine may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if levocarnitine is safe to use if you have ever had:

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I use levocarnitine?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Levocarnitine injection is injected into a vein by a healthcare provider.

Levocarnitine oral is taken by mouth. Your pharmacist can provide more information about how to take this medicine.

Measure liquid medicine with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

The liquid medicine can be taken alone or mixed with a beverage or soft food. Sip or eat the mixture slowly.

Levocarnitine should be taken evenly spaced. This medicine works best if you take it with a meal or after a meal.

Your blood will be tested before and during treatment with levocarnitine. Your blood pressure and other vital signs will also need to be checked often.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using levocarnitine?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect levocarnitine?

Other drugs may affect levocarnitine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.