Cellular Vitality

ALCAR

Acetyl-L-Carnitine

The Mitochondrial Energy Shuttle

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is the acetylated form of L-carnitine, an amino acid derivative that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism. ALCAR transports fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production and crosses the blood-brain barrier to provide unique cognitive benefits. It's essential for sustained physical and mental energy.

The acetyl group allows it to cross the blood-brain barrier
Essential for transporting fatty acids into mitochondria
Supports both physical energy and cognitive function
Carnitine levels decline with age, making supplementation valuable
ALCAR

Per Chew

50 mg

Key Benefits

Discover how ALCAR supports your dog's health and longevity

Mitochondrial Energy

Shuttles fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production, supporting sustained cellular energy throughout the body.

Cognitive Support

Crosses the blood-brain barrier to support brain energy, acetylcholine production, and neuroprotection.

Physical Performance

Supports muscle energy production, exercise tolerance, and recovery after physical activity.

Metabolic Health

Supports healthy fat metabolism and metabolic flexibility, helping maintain healthy weight and energy balance.

Watch & Learn

See How ALCAR Works

Watch this short animation to understand how ALCAR supports your dog's health at the cellular level

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Scientific animation showing the mechanism of action of Acetyl-L-Carnitine

How It Works

ALCAR acts as a shuttle, transporting long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane where they can be burned for energy. Without adequate carnitine, fatty acid oxidation is impaired and energy production suffers. The acetyl group in ALCAR provides additional benefits: it crosses the blood-brain barrier (regular L-carnitine cannot), supports acetylcholine synthesis, and provides neuroprotective effects.

Works Best With:

CoQ10 (mitochondrial support)
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (antioxidant partner)
B Vitamins (energy metabolism)

Dosage Information

Per Chew50 mg
Small Dogs (<25 lbs)50 mg (1 chew)
Medium Dogs (25-50 lbs)100 mg (2 chews)
Large Dogs (>50 lbs)150 mg (3 chews)

Timing: Best given in the morning or before activity for energy support

Energy benefits often noticed within 1-2 weeks; cognitive benefits develop over 4-8 weeks.

Safety Profile

ALCAR has an excellent safety profile with extensive research. It's naturally produced by the body and found in foods like red meat. No significant adverse effects have been reported at supplemental doses. May have mild stimulating effects—some prefer morning dosing.

Research & Citations

Scientific studies supporting the benefits of ALCAR

Acetyl-L-Carnitine: A Drug Able to Slow the Progress of Alzheimer's Disease?

Montgomery SA, Thal LJ, Amrein R

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1998

Review of ALCAR's neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties.

Effect of Acetyl-L-Carnitine on Geriatric Patients Suffering from Dysthymic Disorders

Bella R, Biondi R, Raffaele R, Pennisi G

International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology Research, 1990

Demonstrated ALCAR's positive effects on mood and cognitive function in elderly subjects.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine Improves Aged Brain Function

Ames BN, Liu J

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 2004

Comprehensive review of ALCAR's effects on brain aging and mitochondrial function.

View Study

Give Your Dog the Gift of Longevity

ALCAR is just one of the powerful ingredients in Pawdagen's comprehensive longevity formula.