Carnitine
Quaternary ammonium compound transporting long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for beta-oxidation. Used for cardiovascular disease, sports performance, male fertility, and cognitive function. Converted to TMAO by gut bacteria.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
TMAO conversion: gut bacteria metabolise carnitine to trimethylamine (TMA) then TMAO — elevated TMAO associated with cardiovascular risk. High-dose L-carnitine supplementation may increase TMAO. Drug interactions: thyroid medications (reduces thyroid hormone activity), valproate (may increase L-carnitine clearance), warfarin (potential interaction).