Rankings / Cognitive — Nootropics
ALCAR (acetyl-L-carnitine)
Cognitive · Mitochondrial / cholinergic
Tier B
What this is
Most robust cognitive evidence in older adults with MCI or early AD (Montgomery 2003 meta-analysis). Widely studied for neuropathy. Modest effect sizes. Take in morning — can disrupt sleep.
Mechanism
Acetylated L-carnitine crosses BBB efficiently; supports fatty acid transport into mitochondria; acetyl group donates to ACh synthesis; membrane stabilization
Dose & route
500-2000 mg/day PO
Citations
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12605619/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29313064/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3508636/
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This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.