L-Carnitine for Heart Failure
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether L-Carnitine, a natural substance that helps convert fat into energy, can improve symptoms and heart function in people with heart failure. Heart failure hinders the heart's ability to pump blood, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling. Participants will take a daily dose of L-Carnitine (also known as Levocarnitine) for three months. This trial may suit those with heart failure and some kidney issues who are not on kidney dialysis. As an Early Phase 1 trial, this research aims to understand how L-Carnitine works in people, offering participants a chance to contribute to groundbreaking research.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this treatment is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that taking L-Carnitine orally can improve symptoms and increase exercise capacity in people with heart failure. This may help reduce fatigue and shortness of breath. L-Carnitine is a substance naturally produced by the body, which likely explains why most people tolerate it well.
However, some studies have reported mixed results regarding its safety for heart issues, with evidence suggesting both benefits and potential risks. The current trial is in an early stage, indicating that much remains to be learned about the safety of L-Carnitine specifically for treating heart failure. Those considering joining a trial should discuss potential risks with a healthcare provider.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatments for heart failure, which often include medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics, Levocarnitine offers a unique approach. Levocarnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that plays a crucial role in energy production by helping transport fatty acids into the mitochondria. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it directly targets energy metabolism in heart cells, potentially improving heart function and offering a novel therapeutic angle. Additionally, its oral administration makes it convenient and easy for patients to incorporate into their daily routine.
What evidence suggests that L-Carnitine might be an effective treatment for heart failure?
Research suggests that L-Carnitine might help treat heart failure. One study found that people taking L-Carnitine lived longer than those who did not. Another study showed that L-Carnitine improved the heart's ability to pump blood, which is crucial for individuals with heart failure. It has also been linked to fewer symptoms and complications related to heart issues. However, some research shows mixed results. While the benefits seem promising, more studies are needed. Participants in this trial will receive an oral dose of Levocarnitine (L-Carnitine) to further evaluate its effectiveness.13467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Chris McIntyre, MBBS DM
Principal Investigator
London Health Sciences Centre
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with heart failure and mild to moderate kidney disease who can speak English and consent to participate. It's not for those pregnant, planning pregnancy, breastfeeding, severely allergic to levocarnitine or certain fillers, with advanced kidney disease (stage 5), on dialysis, or with a history of seizures.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive oral L-Carnitine supplementation, 2970mg daily dose for 3 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Long-term follow-up
Participants are monitored for data completeness and retention rate
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Levocarnitine
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's
Lead Sponsor