Acetyl-L-Carnitine in the Treatment of Septic Shock

Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Double-Blinded, Phase II Pilot Study of Acetyl-L-carnitine in the Treatment of Patients With Septic Shock

This placebo-controlled study investigates acetyl-L-carnitine in the treatment of septic shock requiring vasopressors.

This is a cross-over study which infuses ALC for 12 out of 18 hours (and placebo the other 6). Patients must have vasopressor-dependent septic shock and be free from renal failure, hepatic failure, and seizures to be eligible.

Inclusion Criteria:

• documented or presumed infection
• shock requiring vasopressors

Exclusion Criteria:

• dialysis
• hepatic failure
• seizures