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What is levocarnitine?
Levocarnitine is a naturally occurring substance that the body needs for energy.
Levocarnitine is used to treat carnitine deficiency.
Levocarnitine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Uses
This medication is used to prevent and treat low blood levels of carnitine. Carnitine is a substance made in the body from meat and dairy products. It helps the body use certain chemicals (long-chain fatty acids) for energy and to keep you in good health. Low blood levels of carnitine may occur in people whose bodies cannot properly use carnitine from their diets, people on dialysis due to serious kidney disease, and people being treated with certain drugs (e.g., valproic acid, zidovudine). Carnitine levels that are too low can cause liver, heart, and muscle problems.
The injectable form of this drug is recommended if you have serious kidney disease (e.g., ESRD/dialysis) because high doses of the form taken by mouth may increase the risk of serious side effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle pain/weakness, swelling of hands/lower legs/feet, tingling skin, or body odor ("fishy" smell) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: seizure.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Precautions
Before using levocarnitine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, seizures.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
