Evidence supporting the use of: Glycine propionyl-l-carnitine
For the health condition: Angina

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Glycine propionyl-L-carnitine (GPLC) is a propionyl ester of L-carnitine combined with glycine. It has been investigated as a supplement for cardiovascular health, including for the treatment or support of angina pectoris. The rationale is that propionyl-L-carnitine (PLC), the active portion, plays a role in fatty acid metabolism and may improve energy production in ischemic myocardial tissue. Several small clinical studies have evaluated PLC (not always specifically GPLC, but closely related compounds) for angina.

A few randomized, placebo-controlled trials have noted that PLC can improve exercise tolerance and reduce symptoms in patients with stable angina, presumably by enhancing peripheral blood flow and improving cardiac energetics. For example, a 1992 study by Brevetti et al. found that PLC improved pain-free walking distance and reduced ischemic symptoms. Meta-analyses and reviews, such as that by DiNicolantonio et al. (2013), suggest modest benefit for PLC in chronic cardiovascular conditions, though the quality of evidence is moderate and studies are often small and of limited duration.

Overall, the scientific basis for GPLC or PLC in angina is present, but not strong. It falls short of guideline-based recommendations and is not a mainstream therapy. The evidence base is limited by small sample sizes and lack of large, definitive trials. Thus, GPLC use for angina is supported by some scientific validation, but the evidence is modest (rated 2/5).

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