Explore the Science
NMN Forte
OVERVIEW
NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide)
Written and endorsed by Dr. Peter Britton (practicing Small Animal Veterinarian for over 30 years & Head R&D Lead at the CSIRO Research Lab)
It is well established that NAD+ is a master regulator of cellular energy production. NAD+ production in mammalian cells is known to occur through two major pathways.
1. NAD+ production from basic nutritional ingredients in food--the “de novo” or “from the beginning” pathway
2. NAD+ “salvage pathways”--from precursor substrates such as NMN and Nicotinamide riboside (NR).
These two pathways and the roles that NAD+ plays in the cells of the body are complicated (as can be seen from the diagrams below), but also elegant and essential to the normal and youthful function of life.
The Production and Salvage Pathways of NAD+ in the Body
“Principal causes of NAD+ decline
Apart from a deficiency within the NAD+ biosynthesis process, there are principally two conditions under which NAD+ depletion may occur: (i) excessive DNA damage due to free radical or UV attack, leading to hyperactivation of Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). This ultimately leads to a high turnover and subsequent depletion of NAD+. The resulting energy crisis and reduced ATP production can lead to cell death via either an apoptotic or necrotic pathway (ii). A chronic increase in immune activation and inflammatory cytokine production can accelerate CD38 activity and contribute to NAD+ decline. While several clinical disorders and degenerative disorders can meet these criteria, chronic accumulation of oxidative stress and inflammation during advanced age represents a major driver of NAD+ decline. Promotion of NAD+ anabolism using NAD+ precursors may represent a clinically relevant therapeutic strategy to ameliorate age-related decline in cellular energy.”
The Cellular Roles NAD+ in the Body
NAD is used in the body in two vital ways:
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It is used to produce energy for all tissues in the “power plants “of each cell- the mitochondria. In these tiny energy producing “cellular batteries” this NAD is constantly recycled. Not consumed.
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NAD is also used by special genes (Sirtuins and PARPs) to repair the constant DNA damage occurring in cells every day. This NAD is consumed. Not recycled.
So, NAD+ MUST be replenished to maintain stable daily life in a normal and youthful way.
Dogs and cats, like humans, suffer from attacks by outside invaders in the form of viral and bacterial infections. Accompanying this, internal damage caused by the inflammation that goes hand in hand with daily living causes the body to become CHRONICALLY INFLAMED and a victim to all the diseases of aging – such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular damage, and dementia.
As dogs and cats age, their ability to both absorb the basic ingredients to make NAD from their food declines. This, as well as a slowly decreasing ability of their aging bodies to manufacture NAD, results in all their cells being unable to:
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Produce enough energy to function optimally
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Activate their essential DNA repair genes (Sirtuins and PARPs)
So, like oxygen, the normal function of each and every cell in the body is entirely dependent on the supply of NAD+ remaining at stable and youthful levels.
Studies using NMN as a dietary supplement to improve and maintain the supply of NAD in mammalian cells, have shown good responses with no deleterious side effects over the long term.
Dogs are very similar to people in their physiology as well as their susceptibility to chronic diseases. NMN supplementation has shown similar beneficial effects in dogs with improvement in vitality and activity as well as a reduction of the symptoms of many aging diseases (osteoarthritis, heart disease, dementia, and kidney/liver malfunction).
There are many anecdotal stories from pet owners across the world giving credence to the theory that NMN is not only safe in dogs and cats, but also highly beneficial to their health and wellbeing. Even from an early age. There are now many studies -complete and ongoing -showing both the safety and benefits of NMN supplementation in humans as well as in both cats and dogs.
Written and endorsed by Peter Britton (practicing Small Animal Veterinarian for over 30 years)
At VetActiv8 we ensure that the NMN purity level meets 99.9% purity. The purity of NMN is crucial because impurities can reduce the effectiveness of the compound. High-purity NMN ensures optimal bioavailability and efficacy in boosting NAD+ levels, which supports cellular repair, energy production, and healthy aging. By maintaining such high standards, VetActiv8 ensures that our NMN delivers maximum benefits for overall health and longevity.
Turkey Tail Mushroom Extract
Turkey Tail Mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) have gained attention in pet health due to their potential immunomodulatory effects. The presence of bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharide-peptide (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK), in Turkey Tail Mushrooms has been associated with immunostimulatory properties. Studies suggest that these compounds can enhance the activity of immune cells, promoting a balanced and responsive immune system in animals. This immunomodulatory potential could contribute to an animal's overall health by aiding in the defense against infections and diseases. Research shows that Turkey Tail mushroom is a powerful immune system support and works at a cellular level.
Studies have found that PSP and PSK found in Turkey Tail have shown to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. By inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and supporting the activity of immune cells, Turkey Tail can help alleviate chronic inflammation, which is often linked to conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders
Turkey Tail Mushrooms are a rich source of beta-glucans, which are polysaccharides known for their immunomodulatory properties. In dogs, beta-glucans derived from Turkey Tail Mushrooms have been shown to support and enhance the immune system. These compounds stimulate various immune cells, such as macrophages and natural killer cells, promoting a more robust immune response.
Furthermore, Turkey Tail Mushrooms exhibit antioxidant properties attributed to compounds like phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, which can contribute to cellular damage and aging. The presence of these bioactive compounds suggests that incorporating Turkey Tail Mushrooms into a dog's diet may help mitigate oxidative stress, supporting cellular health and longevity.
The richness of phenols and flavonoids found in Turkey Tail also helps improve mitochondrial function. The mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cells, responsible for producing ATP, the primary energy currency in the body. By enhancing mitochondrial efficiency and reducing oxidative stress, Turkey Tail helps to optimize energy production, leading to increased vitality and endurance.
Turkey Tail Mushrooms is also recognized as a healthy prebiotic, which plays a crucial role in supporting digestive health. As a prebiotic, Turkey Tail provides nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria, helping to maintain a balanced microbiome. This balance is essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Moreover, Turkey Tail’s polysaccharides, particularly beta-glucans, promote the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which are vital for gut health. These SCFAs help maintain the integrity of the intestinal lining, reduce inflammation, and support a healthy immune response. Additionally, Turkey Tail contributes to the production of essential vitamins and fatty acids that aid in maintaining the health of the digestive system, urinary tract, and respiratory system.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
CoQ10 is one of the most studied and beneficial active ingredients in health maintenance. Consumers recognize its benefits. Mass-market consumers often compare products based on the total amount of CoQ10 per dose, while not taking into account the issue of bioavailability.
CoQ10 is poorly absorbed for two primary reasons: CoQ10 molecules occur naturally in crystals, bound to each other in a form that is too large for cells to absorb. CoQ10 is also fat-soluble, and is relatively difficult to transport through the digestive system as compared to molecules that are water-soluble.
Some products attempt to overcome poor absorption and attract customers with high CoQ10 doses. The higher the dose, however, the lower the percentage absorbed. Spacing out consumption has some benefit, but it is inconvenient and may lead to inconsistent dosing. Finally, a number of individual factors such as diet, age, cholesterol levels, and gender create large differences from person to person in the quantities of and time required for CoQ10 absorption.
Other products use various technologies to address these issues. They depend on a combination of breaking up or melting the CoQ10 crystals, using surfactants in an oil medium to keep the molecule dissolved, and adding secondary ingredients to promote absorption (surfactants taken over time, however, have been shown to cause stomach irritation). Studies indicate that these solubilized products may provide uptake benefits for some people but not others. Furthermore, solubilized products in softgel form are expensive, inflexible, and have side effects for some users.
The patented MicroActive® process (U.S. 7,030,102) complexes each CoQ10 molecule with two ß-cyclodextrin molecules in a water media. ß-cyclodextrin is used extensively in the food and pharmaceutical industries. It is a GRAS compound formed through an enzymatic conversion of starch. One side of the molecule is fat- soluble and holds the CoQ10, while the other side is water-soluble and makes for efficient transport through the digestive system.
When the micronized MicroActive® complex arrives at a cell, it comes apart, depositing a single CoQ10 molecule for efficient absorption. Six clinical studies compared MicroActive® CoQ10 to crystalline and solubilized products. The results demonstrate the clear advantages of MicroActive®
*Above information taken from the MicroActive® CoQ10 Overview
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is a vital component in the electron transport chain of cellular respiration, playing a crucial role in energy production. Beyond its role in cellular energy metabolism, CoQ10 has been extensively studied for its potential anti-aging effects. CoQ10 acts as a potent antioxidant, mitigating oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals and preventing cellular damage. Research suggests that the antioxidant properties of CoQ10 may contribute to a reduction in the signs of aging by protecting cells from oxidative damage.
As animals age, the natural production of CoQ10 within their bodies may decline. This decrease in CoQ10 levels has been associated with various age-related conditions. Supplementing with CoQ10 has been proposed as a strategy to counteract this decline and potentially slow the aging process. Studies on animal models have shown that CoQ10 supplementation can enhance antioxidant defenses, reduce oxidative stress, and improve overall mitochondrial function, indicating its potential in promoting healthy aging.
Furthermore, CoQ10's ability to support mitochondrial function is closely tied to its anti-aging effects. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells, and their dysfunction is a hallmark of aging. CoQ10 plays a crucial role in maintaining mitochondrial integrity and function, which is essential for energy production and overall cellular health. By preserving mitochondrial function, CoQ10 may contribute to increased vitality and a reduction in age-related decline. Incorporating CoQ10 into a dog's diet may thus offer valuable anti-aging and antioxidative benefits.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in various plants including grapes, berries, and peanuts, has attracted scientific interest due to its potential health benefits. Several in vitro studies have shown that Resveratrol may have cardioprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and anti-aging properties
One of the primary reasons resveratrol is considered beneficial for dogs is its strong antioxidant properties. As an antioxidant, resveratrol helps neutralize free radicals in the body, which can cause oxidative stress and damage to cells. Studies have indicated that resveratrol supplementation may contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress, supporting overall cellular health and potentially mitigating age-related conditions in animals.
Moreover, resveratrol has been investigated for its potential anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is associated with various
health issues, and mitigating inflammation can contribute to overall well-being. Research suggests that resveratrol may modulate inflammatory
pathways and reduce the production of inflammatory molecules, showcasing its anti-inflammatory potential. This anti-inflammatory property may be particularly beneficial for dogs dealing with inflammatory conditions or age-related inflammatory processes.
Resveratrol's impact on cardiovascular health has also been explored. Studies have demonstrated that resveratrol may have positive effects on cardiovascular function, including improving blood vessel function and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Considering that heart health is crucial for overall well-being in dogs, incorporating resveratrol into their diet may provide cardiovascular support and promote longevity.
L-carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative that plays a crucial role in cellular energy metabolism, particularly in the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production. Scientific research suggests that L-carnitine may offer several health benefits for dogs. One primary function of L-carnitine is its involvement in lipid metabolism, facilitating the utilization of fats for energy. Studies have demonstrated that L-carnitine supplementation can enhance the efficiency of fatty acid oxidation, potentially promoting weight management and supporting overall metabolic health in dogs.
Beyond its role in energy metabolism, L-carnitine has been explored for its potential cardiovascular benefits. Research indicates that L-carnitine supplementation may positively influence cardiac function by improving energy production in the heart muscle and enhancing overall cardiac performance. Given the importance of cardiovascular health in dogs, especially as they age.
L-carnitine may serve as a valuable supplement to support cardiac function. Furthermore, L-carnitine has been investigated for its impact on muscle health and exercise performance in dogs. Studies suggest that L-carnitine supplementation may contribute to muscle development, exercise endurance, and recovery by promoting efficient energy utilization. This can be particularly relevant for working or athletic dogs, as well as those undergoing rehabilitation or physical training.
In addition to its metabolic and cardiovascular benefits, L-carnitine has been studied for its potential neuroprotective effects. Research in both animal and human models suggests that L-carnitine may have positive impacts on cognitive function and neuronal health, indicating its potential relevance for supporting canine neurologcial health.
The Results
CLINICAL EVIDENCE
A randomized, controlled clinical trial demonstrates improved owner‑assessed cognitive function in senior dogs receiving a senolytic and NAD+ precursor combination
Scientific Reports | (2024) 14:12399
This study concludes that LY‑D6/2 (a combination of a novel NAD + precursor and senolytic) improves owner‑assessed cognitive function over a 3‑month period and may have broader, but more subtle effects on frailty, activity and happiness as reported by owners.
Replenishing NAD+ content reduces aspects of striated muscle disease in a dog model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Cardoso et al. Skeletal Muscle (2023) 13:20
The golden retriever muscular dystrophy (GRMD) dog displays a phenotype aligning with the progressive course of DMD. Therefore, canine studies may translate better to humans. Recent studies suggested that nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) cellular content could be a critical determinant for striated muscle function. We showed here that NAD+ content was decreased in the striated muscles of GRMD, leading to an alteration of one of NAD+ co-substrate enzymes, PARP-1. Moreover, we showed that boosting NAD+ content using nicotinamide (NAM), a natural NAD+ precursor, modestly reduces aspects of striated muscle disease. Collectively, our results provide mechanistic insights into DMD
Nicotinamide mononucleotide, a key NAD+ intermediate, treats the pathophysiology of diet- and age-induced diabetes in mice
Cell Metab. 2011 Oct 5; 14(4): 528–536
This study explores the role of NMN in treating metabolic conditions in mice, providing insights into potential applications for age-related conditions and metabolic health.
Can Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) and Sirtuins Be Harnessed to Improve Mare Fertility?
Animals 2024, 14(2), 193
This review discussed the production of NAD+ within the cell, its role in activating SIRTs and the described effects on fertility. Issues related to mare fertility and propositions about how NAD+ and Sirtuins may be involved are an area of great interest, and the scope for improvements to reproductive fecundity of the species shows enormous potential.
Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation reverses vascular dysfunction and oxidative stress with aging in mice
Aging Cell. 2016 Jun; 15(3): 522–530.
Investigating the impact of NMN on vascular health and oxidative stress in aging mice, this study may offer insights into the potential cardiovascular benefits of NMN supplementation.
Nicotinamide mononucleotide: exploration of diverse therapeutic applications of a potential molecule
Biomolecules. 2019 Jan; 9(1): 34.
This review paper delves into various therapeutic applications of NMN, potentially providing an overview of its effects on different physiological systems.
Single Agent Polysaccharopeptide Delays Metastases and Improves Survival in Naturally Occurring Hemangiosarcoma
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2012.
Based on this data, one could hypothesize that PSP has the potential to have effects on survival similar to that which is seen with standard of care chemotherapy. Proving, in a biologically aggressive animal model, that PSP delivers antitumor and survival effects in a magnitude similar to that which is seen in standard chemotherapy could have significant implications for shifts in standard of care from current cytotoxic therapies to complementary compounds, such as PSP, that have little to no negative documented effects on normal cells.
Purification, characterization, and antitumor activity of a novel glucan from the fruiting bodies of Coriolus Versicolor
PLoS One. 2017; 12(2): e0171270.
The results obtained demonstrate natural anticancer glucan (CVG) extracted from Coriolus Versicolar has antitumor activity towards Sarcoma-180 cells by its immunomodulation activity.
Medicinal Mushrooms: Bioactive Compounds, Use, and Clinical Trials
Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Jan; 22(2): 634.
Bioactive compounds of selected medicinal mushrooms and their effects and mechanisms in in vitro and in vivo clinical studies are reported in this review. Besides, we analyzed the therapeutic use and pharmacological activities of mushrooms.
Phase 1 Clinical Trial of Trametes versicolor in Women with Breast Cancer
ISRN Oncol. 2012; 2012: 251632.
The phase I data suggest that Trametes versicolor (Tv) is a safe immunotherapy for breast cancer patients that may correct radiotherapy-related immune defects. Based on our findings, Tv mushroom therapy orally administered in the postradiotherapy setting may enhance lymphocyte numbers and NK cell tumoricidal activity.
Bioactivities and Health Benefits of Mushrooms Mainly from China
Molecules 2016, 21(7), 938
Various mushrooms have been proved to possess numerous bioactivities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anticancer, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, and antimicrobial activities. Therefore, numerous mushroom species have the potential to be developed into functional foods for the prevention and treatment of several chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension.
A Critical Review on Health Promoting Benefits of Edible Mushrooms through Gut Microbiota
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(9), 1934
This review is aimed at accumulating the health-promoting benefits of edible mushrooms through gut microbiota. Mushrooms are proven to possess anti-allergic, anti-cholesterol, anti-tumor, and anti-cancer properties. Mushrooms are rich in carbohydrates, like chitin, hemicellulose, β and α-glucans, mannans, xylans, and galactans, which make them the right choice for prebiotics. Mushrooms act as a prebiotics to stimulate the growth of gut microbiota, conferring health benefits to the host. In the present review, we have summarized the beneficial activities of various mushrooms on gut microbiota via the inhibition of exogenous pathogens and, thus, improving the host health.
Effects of polysaccharopeptide from Trametes Versicolor and amoxicillin on the gut microbiome of healthy volunteers
Gut Microbes 5:4, 458–467; July/August 2014;
The microbiomes of healthy individuals show substantial diversity but remain stable over time. The antibiotic amoxicillin alters the microbiome and recovery from this disruption can take several weeks. PsP fromT. versicolor acts as a prebiotic to modulate human intestinal microbiome composition.
Immunomodulatory dietary polysaccharides: a systematic review of the literature
Ramberg et al. Nutrition Journal 2010, 9:54
Numerous dietary polysaccharides, particularly glucans, appear to elicit diverse immunomodulatory effects in numerous animal tissues, including the blood, GI tract and spleen. Glucan extracts from the Trametes versicolor mushroom improved survival and immune function in human RCTs of cancer patients; glucans, arabinogalactans and fucoidans elicited immunomodulatory effects in controlled studies of healthy adults and patients with canker sores and seasonal allergies.
Effects of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Oxidative Stress Markers, Inflammatory Markers, Lymphocyte Subpopulations, and Clinical Status in Dogs with Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease
Antioxidants (Basel). 2022 Aug; 11(8): 1427
Of all parameters assessed, only neutrophil percentage and lymphocyte percentage and concentration were positively affected by supplementation, which may indicate the anti-inflammatory role of CoQ10 in systemic inflammation in dogs with CHF due to MMVD.
Pharmacokinetics of Repeated Oral Dosing with Coenzyme Q10 in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease
Antioxidants in Veterinary Medicine, 2020, 9(9), 827
The solubilized Q10 formulation was well-tolerated in the dogs. Individual variation in plasma concentrations was observed following oral treatment. A long-term placebo-controlled trial is warranted in dogs with MMVD to determine long-term efficacy on the clinical severity of MMVD.
Bioavailability of Coenzyme Q10: An Overview of the Absorption Process and Subsequent Metabolism
Mol Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;37(1):31-7
Studies demonstrate the ability of some individuals to absorb a particular CoQ10 formulation better than other formulation. The inter-individual variations in the absorption of CoQ10 were demonstrated as large inter-individual variations in the 36 h AUC and 48 h AUC, respectively, following the CoQ10 administration.
Coenzyme Q10 supplementation – In ageing and disease
Mechanisms of Ageing and Development 197 (2021) 111521
Here, we review the current knowledge of CoQ10 biosynthesis and primary and acquired CoQ10 deficiency, and results from clinical trials based on CoQ10 supplementation. There are indications that supplementation positively affects mitochondrial deficiency syndrome and some of the symptoms of ageing. Cardiovascular disease and inflammation appear to be alleviated by the antioxidant effect of CoQ10.
Fusogenic liposomes effectively deliver resveratrol to the cerebral microcirculation and improve endothelium-dependent neurovascular coupling responses in aged mice
GeroScience. 2019 Dec; 41(6): 711–725.
This article explores the potential of resveratrol (3,4′,5-trihydroxystilbene)-containing fusogenic liposome (FL-RSV)-based molecular delivery system that can effectively target cultured cerebromicrovascular endothelial cells, attenuating age-related oxidative stress.
Resveratrol and its analogs: defense against cancer, coronary disease and neurodegenerative maladies or just a fad?
Mutation Research/Reviews in Mutation Research, Volume 658, Issues 1–2, 2008, Pages 68-94,
Due of their pharmacological safety, Resveratrol and its analogs may be used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents in order to enhance their efficacy thus minimizing chemotherapy-induced toxicity.
One-year supplementation with a grape extract containing resveratrol modulates inflammatory-related microRNAs and cytokines expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of type 2 diabetes and hypertensive patients with coronary artery disease
Pharmacological Research, Volume 72, June 2013, Pages 69-82
This study provides preliminary evidence that long-term supplementation with a grape extract containing a small quantity of RES: (i) downregulates the expression of several important cytokines and, (ii) modifies the expression of a modulatory network of miRs
Therapeutic Effects of L-Carnitine and Propionyl-L-carnitine on Cardiovascular Diseases: A Review
N.Y. Acad. Sci. 1033: 79–91 (2004)
The results of phase-2 studies in chronic heart failure patients showed that long-term oral treatment with propionyl-L-carnitine improves maximum exercise duration and maximum oxygen consumption over placebo and indicated a specific propionyl-L-carnitine effect on peripheral muscle metabolism. A multicenter trial on 537 patients showed that propionyl-L-carnitine improves exercise capacity in patients with heart failure, but preserved cardiac function
Acetyl-L-Carnitine Ameliorates Mitochondrial Dysfunction Following Contusion Spinal Cord Injury
J Neurochem. 2010 July ; 114(1): 291–301.
The current study is the first to demonstrate that the use of an alternative biofuel for mitochondria, ALC, maintains their bioenergetic homeostasis and, consequently, affords neuroprotection. Notably, intermittent, daily ALC treatments significantly increased gray matter tissue sparing and marginally spared white matter.
L-Carnitine Supplementation in Recovery after Exercise
doi: 10.3390/nu10030349
Given the impact of the structural and symptomatic consequences of high-intensity exercise, i.e., impairment of muscle sarcomeres and pain, which do not only reduce quality of life but diminish further training capacities, facilitation of recovery from exercise by l-carnitine supplementation is particularly beneficial to the healthy young active population. Moreover, elderly experiencing lean muscle mass and function decline, reduced muscle l-carnitine content and mitochondrial dysfunction can also benefit from the positive impact of supplementation with l-carnitine. In particular, with a growing number of older subjects engaged in moderate exercise, the role of l-carnitine in this demographic will continue to gain importance.
L‐Carnitine metabolism, protein turnover and energy expenditure in supplemented and exercised Labrador Retrievers
J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl). 2020 Sep; 104(5): 1540–1550.
The present study concluded that Labrador Retrievers supplemented with 125 mg L‐carnitine had elevated serum L‐carnitine content, higher muscle free L‐carnitine and a lower muscle FBR determined via PT studies. Female Labrador Retrievers supplemented with L‐carnitine had higher oxygen consumption rates and EE compared to placebo female Labrador Retrievers.
Efficacy and Safety of L-Carnitine Treatment for Chronic Heart Failure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Biomed Res Int. 2017; 2017: 6274854.
The meta-analysis demonstrates that L-C treatment in CHF patients may improve clinical symptoms and cardiac function and decrease serum levels of BNP and NT-proBNP and has good tolerance.