Can You Take L-Carnitine and Propionyl-L-Carnitine Together?

Use extra care with this pair

The short answer

Propionyl-L-Carnitine (PLC) is an ester form of L-Carnitine. Taking both provides redundant carnitine that may increase TMAO production through gut microbial metabolism and cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

How to arrange timing

Choose either L-Carnitine or Propionyl-L-Carnitine based on your goal (general energy vs. cardiovascular support).

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Koeth RA, et al. Intestinal microbiota metabolism of L-carnitine, a nutrient in red meat, promotes atherosclerosis. Nat Med. 2013;19(5):576-585.

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.