Can it relieve MS fatigue?
Some research suggests that acetyl-L-carnitine may improve fatigue associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Acetyl-L-carnitine is a form of L-carnitine, an amino acid that is found in nearly all cells of the body. L-carnitine plays a critical role in the production of energy from long chain fatty acids. In addition, it increases the activity of certain nerve cells in the central nervous system. Fatigue is a common symptom in people with multiple sclerosis. The cause isn’t well understood. A study published in 2006 evaluated the benefit of supplementation with L-carnitine in people with MS-related fatigue who had low blood levels of L-carnitine. Study participants were given 3 to 6 grams of oral L-carnitine daily. Researchers reported a decrease in fatigue intensity in 63 percent of participants treated with immunosuppressive drugs, especially in those treated with cyclophosphamide and interferon beta. Although acetyl-L-carnitine generally has only few or mild side effects, it can inter
