Carnitine is a substance the body makes naturally in the liver and kidneys and then stores in the heart, brain, sperm, and skeletal muscles. Because it acts as an antioxidant and may help restore cells damaged by inflammation, it is frequently suggested as a treatment for various conditions, including Peyronie’s disease.
Study of carnitine for Peyronie’s disease treatment
Thus far, only one study of carnitine for Peyronie’s disease treatment has been done to evaluate the use of acetyle-L-carnitine. The study involved 48 patients who were given either 20 mg twice daily of tamoxifen or 1 gram twice daily of acetyl-L-carnitine for three months. Acetyl-L-carnitine was significantly more effective than tamoxifen at reducing pain and inhibiting progression of the disease, and both drugs were effective at reducing plaque size. Acetyl-L-carnitine significantly reduced penile curvature as well, from 15.9 degrees to 8.9 degrees. However, no follow-up studies were ever conducted to duplicate or verify this finding. (Biagiotti 2001)
Dose and side effects of carnitine for Peyronie’s disease treatment
The suggested dose of carnitine for Peyronie’s disease treatment is 1 gram twice daily for three months. Carnitine supplements are available in three forms: L-carnitine, which is the most widely available; acetyl-L-carnitine, often used for brain disorders; and propionyl-L-carnitine, typically used for heart disease and peripheral vascular disease. Side effects are generally mild and may include restlessness, insomnia, vomiting, headache, and stuffy nose. Rare side effects include body odor, rash, fever, and increased blood pressure.
Men who want to consider carnitine for Peyronie’s disease treatment should discuss it with their doctor and also do some research to uncover the latest possible studies in this field.
Reference
Biagiotti G, Cavallini G. Acetyl-L-carnitine vs tamoxifen in the oral therapy of Peyronie’s disease: a preliminary report. BJU Int 2001 Jul; 88(1): 63-67
