The efficacy of L-carnitine in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and concomitant obesity

Abstract

Background In light of the high prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity, treatment options for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis are of particular interest. The purpose of the study is to assess the efficacy of L-carnitine and its effects on the functional state of the liver, as well as on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and concomitant obesity. Methods People in the control group followed a hypocaloric diet and received 1 tablet of simvastatin 20 mg once a day and 2 capsules of essential phospholipids 600 mg three times a day for 90 days. People in the experimental group followed a hypocaloric diet and received 1 tablet of simvastatin 20 mg once a day and L-carnitine 10 mL orally two times a day for 90 days. Results L-carnitine normalized the blood lipid profile of subjects, as demonstrated by a significant decrease in the blood levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins, atherogenic index, and insulin resistance. The use of L-carnitine in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and concomitant obesity contributes to the steady reduction of the main clinical and biochemical symptoms of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Conclusions L-carnitine produces positive effects on the blood lipid profile and carbohydrate metabolism.