CARNITOR® (levocarnitine) is a carrier molecule in the transport of long-chain
fatty acids across the inner mitochondrial membrane.
The chemical name of levocarnitine is 3-carboxy-2(R)-hydroxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-1-propanaminium,
inner salt. Levocarnitine is a white crystalline, hygroscopic powder. It is
readily soluble in water, hot alcohol, and insoluble in acetone. The specific
rotation of levocarnitine is between -29° and -32°. Its chemical structure
is:
Empirical Formula: C7H15NO3
Molecular Weight: 161.20
CARNITOR® (levocarnitine) Injection is a sterile aqueous solution containing 1 g of levocarnitine per 5 mL vial. The pH is adjusted to 6.0 - 6.5 with hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide.
Last reviewed on RxList: 5/28/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.