Carnitine and its derivatives in cardiovascular disease.
Carnitine and its derivative propionyl-L-carnitine are endogenous cofactors which enhance carbohydrate metabolism and reduce the intracellular buildup of toxic metabolites in ischemic conditions. The carnitines have been, and are being used in a spectrum of diseases including multiple cardiovascular conditions. These include angina, acute myocardial infarction, postmyocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, dyslipidemia, and diabetes. Most published data on carnitine, propionyl-L-carnitine, and other carnitine congeners are favorable but the clinical trials have been relatively small. In currently used doses, these substances are virtually devoid of significant side effects.
Arsenian
M A
MA
Cape Ann Medical Center, Gloucester, MA 01930, USA.
D001145:Arrhythmias, Cardiac / Q000188:drug therapy; D002317:Cardiovascular Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D002331:Carnitine / Q000737:chemistry / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D006949:Hyperlipidemias / Q000188:drug therapy; D017202:Myocardial Ischemia / Q000188:drug therapy; D016491:Peripheral Vascular Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy
D002317:Cardiovascular Agents; D002331:Carnitine