Effect of L-carnitine and/or L-acetyl-carnitine in nutrition treatment for male infertility: a systematic review
Zhou X, Liu F, Zhai S
Published in Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Methodology
Systematic review of randomized controlled trials of L-carnitine and/or acetyl-L-carnitine for idiopathic male infertility.
Key Findings
Across the identified trials, carnitine supplementation improved total and forward sperm motility and, in some studies, pregnancy rates, while sperm concentration changes were inconsistent.
Conclusions
Carnitines may modestly improve sperm motility in idiopathic male infertility, but pregnancy-rate evidence is limited.
Limitations
Few small trials, heterogeneous dosing and duration, weak reporting of randomization and blinding, and pregnancy outcomes rarely measured.
Supplements Studied
Carnitine supplementation improved total and forward sperm motility in idiopathic male infertility, though pregnancy-rate evidence was limited.
Carnitine supplementation improved sperm motility in men with idiopathic infertility in the pooled trials reviewed.
Outcomes Measured
Total and forward sperm motility improved with carnitine supplementation, while sperm concentration changes were inconsistent.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Peking University academic funding.
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.