Cattle Mag

What species of animals are being treated regularly with carnitine?

Dogs are the main species treated with carnitine, although any species can be supplemented with carnitine for possible benefit.

How much research has been conducted on this supplement?

Carnitine is one of our better-researched supplements and has been shown to help some dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy.

How can my pet benefit from carnitine?

For pets with carnitine deficiency, supplementation is essential to reverse the effects of dilated cardiomyopathy and secondary congestive heart failure.

How successful is carnitine?

For some dogs with true carnitine deficiency, supplementation can be life-saving. For most pets with heart disease, supplementation may be beneficial, but other supplements are often combined with carnitine to get a balanced cardiac tonic.

How safe is carnitine?

Carnitine is very safe. People are advised not to use forms of carnitine known as “D-carnitine” or “DL-carnitine,” as these can cause angina, muscle pain and loss of muscle function (probably by interfering with L-carnitine.) The maximum safe dosages for young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease have not been established; similar precautions are probably warranted in pets. Pets that are taking antiseizure medications, particularly phenytoin (Dilantin) or phenobarbital, may may need extra carnitine, especially those with heart disease.

Where do I get carnitine and do I need a prescription?

As is true with many supplements, your veterinarian may have favorite supplements that he will sell you or recommend to you. Pet owners are cautioned against buying supplements without knowledge of the manufacturer, as supplements are not highly regulated and some supplements may not contain the labeled amount of carnitine. A prescription is not needed for carnitine supplements.

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