There are a number of studies (and on-going clinical trials) which are showing efficacy of the micronutrient l-carnitine (an amino acid derivative) in addressing cancer fatigue. Several trials have shown that patients who have received cisplatin (and probably also carbo-, though the trials were with cis-) are often deficient in l-carnitine, which is important to the metabolism of fatty acids (and thus energy levels). The various studies have shown no adverse side effects at even high doses and improved energy levels and/or reduction in fatigue in many patients.

My husband took (with his doctors' OK) 500 mg l-carnitine as a liquid in juice or water each day all through treatment and for a couple of months thereafter. This appears to be the dose most cited in study results. He was never terribly fatigued, and this may have helped. (For example, he went birdwatching every weekend through treatment although for only about 2 hours rather than his usual 4.) We also told another Hopkins patient, who was complaining of fatigue, and she emailed us after a week of supplementation to say she also felt less tired and was surprised at the difference in such a short time.

I know this sounds like a testimonial for those fake "energy" pills they tout on TV, and it is also true that many body-builders and athletes take l-carnitine in hopes of improving performance. However, research has indicated that for the normal person, who is not deficient, this supplementation does no good (except to the sellers of the supplements) but there are quite a few studies in fatigued cancer patients which indicate benefit in some (with no adverse effects). NCI has a number of trials underway to get a better handle on this. A google search of "l-carnitine and cancer fatigue" will come up with quite a few references.

It might be worth a try, l-carnitine can be bought as a liquid at GNC and also is in pill form.

And as always, do not take ANYTHING during treatment that you have not run past your doctors for their approval!

Gail