Acetyl L-Carnitine HCl CAS 5080-50-2

Acetyl L-Carnitine HCl – Bioavailable Nutrient for Energy Metabolism and Cognitive Health

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 5080-50-2

• Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₇NO₄·HCl

• Molecular Weight: 239.70 g/mol

• Synonyms: ALCAR, Acetyl-L-carnitine hydrochloride, (R)-2-Acetoxy-3-carboxy-N,N,N-trimethylpropan-1-aminium chloride

• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder

• Solubility: Freely soluble in water; soluble in ethanol; practically insoluble in organic solvents

• Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions; sensitive to high humidity

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Overview
Acetyl L-carnitine (ALCAR) is the acetylated ester of L-carnitine, an amino acid-like compound that plays a fundamental role in mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation and energy production. The addition of an acetyl group enhances its lipophilicity and bioavailability, allowing it to cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively than L-carnitine alone. This makes ALCAR particularly valuable for both sports nutrition and neurological applications. It supports mitochondrial function, promotes energy metabolism, and provides neuroprotective benefits by improving cognitive performance and slowing age-related cognitive decline.

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
ALCAR consists of L-carnitine with an acetyl group attached to the hydroxyl group, forming an ester. This modification improves its ability to penetrate cell membranes, especially in neuronal tissues. The compound is typically synthesized by acetylation of L-carnitine using suitable acetylating agents, followed by conversion to the hydrochloride salt to enhance water solubility and stability.

Physicochemical Properties

• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder

• Solubility: Highly soluble in water, making it easy to formulate in beverages, powders, and capsules

• Hygroscopicity: Moderate; should be protected from moisture to prevent caking

• Stability: Chemically stable at room temperature when stored in dry, airtight containers away from light

Applications

• Sports nutrition: Used to support energy production, reduce fatigue, and improve exercise performance and recovery.

• Neuroprotection: Investigated for its role in supporting cognitive function, memory, and mood; used in therapies for age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and other neurodegenerative conditions.

• Mitochondrial support: Promotes mitochondrial health and energy metabolism, benefiting overall metabolic function.

• Weight management: May support fat metabolism and energy utilization.

• Cardiovascular health: Supports heart function by improving fatty acid oxidation in cardiac muscle.

• Animal feed: Added to livestock and pet feed to enhance growth and metabolic efficiency.

Key Benefits

• Enhances mitochondrial energy production and fatty acid oxidation.

• Crosses the blood-brain barrier to support cognitive function and neuroprotection.

• Improves exercise performance, reduces muscle soreness, and accelerates recovery.

• Supports healthy aging by protecting against oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.

• Well-tolerated and safe at recommended doses.

Recommended Dosage
Typical supplemental doses range from 500 mg to 2,000 mg per day, depending on the specific application. For cognitive support and neuroprotection, doses of 1,000–2,000 mg/day are commonly used. Always consult a healthcare professional for individualized recommendations.

Safety and Handling

• Acetyl L-carnitine HCl is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in dietary supplements.

• May cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, or restlessness in sensitive individuals.

• Avoid use in individuals with seizure disorders without medical supervision.

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, dust mask) when handling large quantities.

Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, and 25 kg containers (bags, drums, or boxes). Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by HPLC), water content, heavy metals, and microbial contamination to ensure compliance with food, supplement, and pharmaceutical standards.