Supplement
Propionyl-L-Carnitine
SavePropionyl-L-carnitine (PLC) is an ester of L-carnitine with particular affinity for cardiac and skeletal muscle tissue, studied for peripheral vascular disease and exercise performance.
Quick verdict
Good evidence for intermittent claudication and peripheral circulation; modest exercise performance data.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
Multiple RCTs support PLC for walking distance in peripheral arterial disease. Also studied for heart failure and male fertility. Exercise performance evidence is modest.
Benefits
- Improves walking distance in peripheral vascular disease
- Supports cardiac energy metabolism
- May enhance exercise recovery
Dosage notes
1–3 g daily in divided doses. Often used at 2 g/day in vascular studies.
Side effects
- GI upset
- Fishy body odor
- Nausea
Who should be cautious
May interact with thyroid hormones and anticoagulants. Use with caution in hypothyroidism.
What this page cannot tell you
Benefits are specific to vascular and cardiac tissue; general carnitine may be more appropriate for fat metabolism.
Leaderboard scores
- Recovery45
- Energy40
Write a review
Sign in to write a review.