Acetyl-L-Carnitine and Pregnancy

Is Acetyl-L-Carnitine Safe During Pregnancy?

Acetyl-L-carnitine is an important compound found in the body. It is also a dietary supplement claimed to be beneficial for a number of different uses. There is no strong evidence that acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation is either safe or unsafe for use during pregnancy.

 

Just because the product is found naturally in the human body, it should not be assumed that acetyl-L-carnitine is safe for use during pregnancy. This is a mistake that some pregnant women make.

 

Pregnancy often limits the prescription and nonprescription drugs that a woman can take. As a result, pregnant women often seek safe alternatives, sometimes assuming that dietary supplements are always safe. This is simply not the case. Dietary supplements can be marketed in the United States without any evidence that they are safe, or even effective, for anyone, including pregnant women.

 

If you are pregnant, it is always a good idea to have a discussion with your healthcare provider before taking any medication or supplement, including acetyl-L-carnitine. This is very important, even if you think your healthcare provider will not understand your choice or will discourage the use of alternative medicines.