Acetyl-L-carnitine in the treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Li S, Li Q, Li Y, Li L, Tian H, Sun X
Published in PLoS ONE
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of acetyl-L-carnitine for peripheral neuropathic pain of any cause.
Key Findings
Pooled analysis found acetyl-L-carnitine significantly reduced pain versus placebo, with the largest effects at 2 g/day or higher and in diabetic neuropathy. Electrophysiological nerve conduction measures also improved. Adverse events were mostly mild gastrointestinal effects.
Conclusions
Acetyl-L-carnitine provides a clinically meaningful reduction in peripheral neuropathic pain, best supported in diabetic neuropathy.
Limitations
Moderate-to-high heterogeneity; several included trials were industry-funded; pain is a subjective endpoint; few trials extended beyond one year.
Supplements Studied
Pooled randomized data show acetyl-L-carnitine significantly reduces peripheral neuropathic pain, with the largest effects at doses of 2 g/day or above.
Pooled analysis found acetyl-L-carnitine significantly reduced pain versus placebo, with the largest effects at 2 g/day or higher and in diabetic neuropathy. Electrophysiological nerve conduction measures also improved. Adverse events were mostly mild gastrointestinal effects.
Outcomes Measured
Pooled randomized data show a clinically meaningful reduction in peripheral neuropathic pain, largest at 2 g/day or above.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Chinese national and institutional research grants.
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