It has been prescribed for dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy and heart disorders due to chemotherapeutic treatments. Carnitine is is needed by the body for the metabolism of fatty acids into energy in the cells. By doing this, it helps the body utilize fat for energy while maintaining the lean muscle mass which helps reduce the overall body fat. Because L-carnitine is essential in the process of converting fatty acids into energy, a deficiency may result in increased fat storage, decreased performance, and in humans, an increase of heart disease associated with mitochondrial defects. Carnitine is found in meat and dairy products and it is also made by the body.
Dietary deficiency is rare except in cases of starvation or dramatically lowered protein intake.
The major reason for a deficiency is a genetic defect preventing carnitine from entering the cells. L-carnitine is the form that can be used by the body. Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, loose stool, diarrhea, and increased body odor. Give with food to decrease the gastrointestinal side effects. Safe use in animals has not been established.