ALCAR Science
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Ingredient Spotlight

ALCAR: The Energy Shuttle

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a mitochondrial cofactor that transports fatty acids into the powerhouse of cells, restoring energy production in aging dogs.

ATP
Energy

Why does my dog lack energy?

Mitochondria are the cellular power plants that convert food into ATP energy. As dogs age, mitochondrial efficiency declines dramatically, leaving senior dogs fatigued and less playful.

This affects:

  • Physical EnergyReduced ATP production causes fatigue
  • Cognitive FunctionBrain requires 20% of body's energy
  • Cellular RepairEnergy-dependent processes slow down

Mitochondrial Function by Age

With and without ALCAR supplementation

AdultMatureSeniorSenior+ALCAR

*Based on mitochondrial function studies in aging mammals

The Solution

Restoring Cellular Power

ALCAR acts as a molecular shuttle, transporting fatty acids into mitochondria for efficient ATP production, restoring energy and vitality to aging dogs.

01

Fatty Acid Transport

ALCAR shuttles long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria, enabling efficient beta-oxidation and ATP production.

02

Mitochondrial Restoration

Reverses age-associated mitochondrial dysfunction, restoring metabolic activity and cellular energy reserves.

03

Cognitive Energy

Supports brain energy production, enhancing mental clarity and cognitive function in senior dogs.

How ALCAR Works

The Carnitine Shuttle System

ALCAR is the acetylated form of L-carnitine, a naturally occurring compound that acts as a molecular transporter. It binds to long-chain fatty acids and carries them across the inner mitochondrial membrane, where they undergo beta-oxidation to generate ATP energy.

Age-Related Decline Reversal

Studies show ALCAR supplementation reverses age-associated decline in metabolic activity. By restoring carnitine levels, ALCAR helps aging mitochondria regain efficiency, increasing ATP production and reducing oxidative stress.

Neuroprotection & Brain Support

The brain is particularly dependent on mitochondrial function. ALCAR's acetyl group also supports acetylcholine synthesis, a critical neurotransmitter for learning and memory, making it doubly beneficial for cognitive aging.

Backed by Research

ALCAR and Mitochondrial Function in Aged Dogs (2007)

"ALCAR supplementation improved learning in aged beagle dogs in landmark discrimination tests, demonstrating cognitive enhancement through mitochondrial restoration."

Milgram et al.2007

ALCAR Reverses Age-Associated Metabolic Decline (2009)

"Short-term supplementation with ALCAR was effective in reducing age-related mitochondrial dysfunction, improving metabolic activity in aging animals."

Christie et al.2009

Nutritional Supplementation in Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (2007)

"Clear beneficial effect of ALCAR-containing nutritional supplementation on behavioral aspects associated with canine cognitive dysfunction."

Heath et al.2007

Safety Profile

Gentle on Aging Digestive Systems

  • Well-tolerated amino acid derivative with decades of safe use in veterinary medicine
  • Minimal gastrointestinal upset at recommended doses—ideal for senior dogs with sensitive digestion
  • Rapidly absorbed and efficiently utilized by the body without accumulation
  • Supports natural energy metabolism without stimulating effects
  • Naturally present in muscle tissue, making it biocompatible with canine physiology
  • No known interactions with common canine supplements or nutrients
  • Safe for long-term daily supplementation in dogs of all ages

All Pawdagen ingredients are selected for safety, efficacy, and compatibility with your dog's health.

Synergistic Ingredients

ALCAR + CoQ10

Mitochondrial powerhouse. Both support ATP production through complementary mechanisms for maximum energy restoration.

ALCAR + NMN

Cellular energy synergy. NMN boosts NAD+ while ALCAR facilitates fatty acid oxidation for comprehensive energy support.

ALCAR + Creatine

Energy reserve system. Creatine stores energy while ALCAR produces it, creating a complete energy support system.

ALCAR + Lion's Mane

Brain energy and growth. ALCAR fuels brain cells while Lion's Mane stimulates NGF for cognitive enhancement.

Ready to restore your dog's energy and vitality?