Evidence supporting the use of: L-carnitine
For the health condition: Autism

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Synopsis

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

L-carnitine has been investigated as a potential adjunctive therapy for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), based on the hypothesis that mitochondrial dysfunction may contribute to the pathophysiology of ASD in some individuals. L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism, and deficiencies have been reported in a subset of children with autism. Several small-scale clinical studies and case reports have suggested that L-carnitine supplementation may improve some core and associated symptoms of autism, such as social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. For example, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in 2013 (El-Ansary et al., 2013) found statistically significant improvements in behavior and cognition in children with ASD who received L-carnitine compared to placebo. However, these studies had relatively small sample sizes and methodological limitations, and results have not always been consistently replicated.

Current scientific evidence for the use of L-carnitine in autism is considered preliminary. While some positive findings exist, there is not yet sufficient high-quality, large-scale research to recommend routine use of L-carnitine in all individuals with ASD. Clinical guidelines do not currently endorse L-carnitine as a standard therapy, but supplementation may be considered in cases with confirmed metabolic or mitochondrial abnormalities. Overall, the evidence supports the potential for benefit in selected cases, but further research is necessary to establish efficacy, safety, and optimal dosing in the broader ASD population.

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