Levocarnitine
Also known as: Carnitor, L-Carnitine
> **Administration**: Give this supplement with meals whenever possible to reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects like loose stools or nausea. > **Expectations**: For heart conditions (like dilated cardiomyopathy), this supplement is usually part of a broader treatment plan. The majority of dogs responding to carnitine therapy will still require their other prescription medications to control clinical signs. > **Product Selection**: Ensure you are purchasing **L-carnitine** (levocarnitine). Avoid products containing D-carnitine or racemic mixtures, as they can interfere with the body's ability to use the supplement.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
Veterinary professional? See the full dosing-by-species reference on VetSheet →
What it is used for
- Adjunctive dietary therapy in cats with severe hepatic lipidosis
- Supplementation in cats with liver disease
- Trial for treating canine dilated cardiomyopathy (large or giant breed dog)
- Adjunctive therapy of dilated cardiomyopathy in American Cocker spaniels
- Severe myocardial failure in Boxers
- Adjunctive treatment of American cocker spaniels with dilated cardiomyopathy
- Dilated cardiomyopathy in American Cocker spaniels
- Dilated cardiomyopathy in Boxer dogs
- Documented systemic carnitine deficiency
- Myocardial carnitine deficiency only
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Gastrointestinal upset (loose stools, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting) - usually mild and dose-dependent
- Increased body odor (reported in human patients)
Cautions & contraindications
- Use of D-carnitine or racemic (D,L) mixtures (competitively inhibits L-carnitine uptake)
- Use only the Levo- (L-) forms of carnitine. Products labeled as 'Vitamin BT' may contain both D and L racemic forms; the D-form competitively inhibits L-uptake and can cause a deficiency. Generally considered safe to use during pregnancy (FDA Category B in humans), though documented safety in pregnant animals has not been definitively established.
Drug interactions
- Valproic acid: Patients receiving valproic acid may require higher dosages of levocarnitine due to drug-induced carnitine depletion.
Frequently asked questions
What is Levocarnitine used for in pets?
> Administration: Give this supplement with meals whenever possible to reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects like loose stools or nausea. > Expectations: For heart conditions (like dilated cardiomyopathy), this supplement is usually part of a broader treatment plan. The majority of dogs responding to carnitine therapy will still require their other prescription medications to control clinical signs. > Product Selection: Ensure you are purchasing L-carnitine (levocarnitine). Avoid products containing D-carnitine or racemic mixtures, as they can interfere with the body's ability to use the supplement.
Is Levocarnitine safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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