L-Carnitine

What is L-Carnitine?

Molecular Formula (L-Carnitine): C₇H₁₅NO₃

Molecular Weight: 161.2 g/mol

Chemical Name: Levocarnitine

CAS Number: 541-45-1

It is a chemical that is an amino acid derivative. Substrates are needed in the mitochondria for energy production. While it is a type of B vitamin, its structure resembles that of amino acids.

It is the most important substance for the transport of long-chain fatty acids. It has enantiomers, which are R-Carnitine and DL-Carnitine.

It plays an important role in fat metabolism. It has the property of helping muscles replenish energy. It also has the ability to control fatigue and stress.

Other Names Are As Follows;

• Levocarnitine
• L-Carnitine
• Vitamin BT
• Carrier Vitamin
• 541-15-1
• Base
• Tartrate

How is it Produced?

It is obtained from glycerin by the enantioselective method.

What are the Physical and Chemical Properties?

Physically, it is a white, crystalline, hygroscopic chemical.

The melting point is in the range of 195 °C to 198 °C.

Boiling Point: No information available.

It dissolves in water and hot alcohol. It also dissolves in Methyl Alcohol. It does not have very good solubility in acetone, Ethyl Acetate, and Butyl Acetate.

What is the Difference Between L-Carnitine Base and Tartrate Form?

The base form absorbs more moisture than the tartrate form. For this reason, it causes sticking during the tablet or effervescent pressing stage of the machines during production.

Preference may vary according to the users' usage and application method.

In addition, one form of L-Carnitine causes darkening in powder products. This could be Tartrate or Base. It needs to be determined more precisely.

What are the Usage Areas of L-Carnitine?

• L-Carnitine is used in soy-containing infant formulas to promote fat absorption.
• It facilitates the amount of phospholipids by facilitating the uptake of FFAs in the perfused liver.
• It is used as a fat-burning ingredient in the manufacture of anti-cellulite gels or anti-cellulite creams.
• It is used in the production of sports nutrition products and products manufactured for weight loss.
• Fat accumulates in the heart, liver, and skeletal muscles of humans and animals. The fatty acids that accumulate here are long-chain. Drugs containing L-Carnitine are used to transport these fatty acids and prevent their accumulation.
• Drugs containing levocarnitine are used in the production of diabetes medications to provide substrate. It is an important compound for preventing irregular fat metabolism.
• It is used in the manufacture of drugs produced to lower the triglyceride count in the blood.
• It is an important compound for increasing the antioxidant effects of Vitamin E and Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) compounds.
• L-Carnitine is used as an additive in the feed of poultry and cattle.
• It is used in protein-containing additives to increase fat absorption.
• Appetite-stimulating drugs containing L-Carnitine are given to people experiencing nutritional issues to ensure an increase in appetite.
• In the production of chewable tablets for sports nutrition, L-Carnitine is used together with Tartaric Acid to help muscles replenish energy.
• It is used in pet dog food for performance and health improvement. In this way, it helps reduce muscle breakdown and oxidative stress.

What are the Factors Affecting Prices?

The price of L-Carnitine is directly dependent on the prices of the materials used in its production. As glycerin prices increase, the price of this compound increases.

The price of L-Carnitine is directly linked to its areas of use. Recently, there has been a surge in demand due to its increased use in sports nutrition, poultry feed, and cattle feed. Therefore, its prices are increasing.

Especially recently, there has been a very high increase in poultry farming. For this reason, L-Carnitine prices have increased.

Companies selling L-Carnitine can change their prices depending on price changes in global markets. Distance from the production site and depletion of stocks are the most important factors.