Effect of acetyl-l-carnitine in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy : A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background/aim: Deficiency of acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) and L-carnitine (LC) appears to play a role in peripheral diabetic neuropathy, although the evidence in humans is still limited. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the effect of ALC on pain and electromyographic parameters in people with diabetic neuropathy. Methods: A literature search in major databases, without language restriction, was undertaken. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or pre-and post-test studies. The effect of ALC supplementation on pain perception and electromyographic parameters in patients with diabetic neuropathy was compared vs. a control group (RCTs). The effe…