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Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

Also known as Acetyl-L-Carnitine (Cognitive), ALCAR, acetyl l carnitine

Half-life

~2-3 hours

What is Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)?

Acetylated form of L-carnitine that crosses blood-brain barrier. Supports mitochondrial and cognitive function.

How Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) works

Fatty acid transport (like L-carnitine) plus acetyl group donation for acetylcholine synthesis and histone acetylation-mediated gene expression in brain.

Benefits & uses

  • Mental energy & focus
  • Mitochondrial/cellular energy
  • May support mood
  • Fatty-acid metabolism

Common uses: Cognitive enhancement, memory, mitochondrial function, neuroprotection, mood.

CognitiveFat Loss

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) dosage

Typical dose
500–2000 mg daily

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) half-life

~2-3 hours (plasma); brain can retain acetyl groups longer

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) side effects

  • Fishy odor (less than free L-carnitine)
  • Insomnia if taken too late
  • Nausea (rare)
  • Generally well tolerated
  • Overstimulation/insomnia if late

Track Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) in Protokol.

Log doses, model half-lives, check interactions, and line it all up against your bloodwork. Free on iPhone and Android.

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For research and educational purposes only. This page is not medical advice and is not a recommendation to use any compound. Many compounds listed are not approved for human use, and some are prescription-only or controlled in your jurisdiction. Dosing figures are reference or observational reports. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing anything. Protokol is for tracking purposes only.