MedicineNet.com

levocarnitine - injection, Carnitor

Take the Chronic Fatigue Quiz Surprising Benefits of Sex Slideshow Foods & Drinks That Make You Gotta Go Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: LEVOCARNITINE - INJECTION (lee-voh-KAR-nih-teen)

BRAND NAME(S): Carnitor

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to prevent and treat low blood levels of carnitine. Carnitine is a substance made in the body from meat and dairy products. It helps the body use certain chemicals (long-chain fatty acids) for energy and to keep you in good health. Low blood levels of carnitine may occur in people whose bodies cannot properly use carnitine from their diets, people on dialysis due to serious kidney disease, and people being treated with certain drugs (e.g., valproic acid, zidovudine). Carnitine levels that are too low can cause liver, heart, and muscle problems.The injectable form of this drug is recommended if you have serious kidney disease (e.g., ESRD/dialysis) because high doses of the form taken by mouth may increase the risk of serious side effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given into a vein by slow injection or through an IV, usually by a health care professional.Follow all instructions for proper mixing with the correct IV fluids. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. If you have any questions about the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist.The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to therapy.Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle pain/weakness, swelling of hands/lower legs/feet, tingling skin, or body odor ("fishy" smell) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.