The effects of L-carnitine supplementation on lipid concentrations inpatients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

This metaanalysis was performed to assess the effect of Lcarnitine supplementation on lipid profile. A systematic search were conducted in PubMed and Scopus to identify randomized clinical trials (RCTs) which evaluated the effects of Lcarnitine on lipid profile. Pooled effect sizes were measured using randomeffect model (DersimonianLaird). Metaanalysis showed that Lcarnitine supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC) (weighted mean difference [WMD]: 8.17 mg/dL; 95% CI,14.68 to 1.65, I2=52.2%, P = 0.041). Baseline level of TC was a source of heterogeneity, with a greater effect in studies with a baseline level of more than 200 mg/d (WMD: 11.93 mg/dL; 95% CI, 20.80 to3.05). Lcarnitine also significantly decreased lowdensity lipoproteincholesterol (LDLC) (WMD:5.22 mg/dL; 95% CI, 9.54 to 0.91, I2=66.7%, P = 0.010), and LDLC level lt;100 mg/dL), trial duration,and Lcarnitine dosage were potential sources of heterogeneity. Lcarnitine supplementation appeared to have no significant effect on highdensity lipoproteincholesterol (HDLC) (WMD: 0.51 mg/dL;95% CI, 2.45 to 1.44) and triglyceride (TG) (WMD: 2.80 mg/dL; 95% CI, 8.09 to 13.69). This metaanalysisrevealed that Lcarnitine may have favorable effects on lipid profile, especially LDLC and TC. However, further RCTs are needed to confirm the veracity of these results, particularly among hyperlipidemic patients.