This study reviews in vitro and in vivo studies, clinical trials, and abstracts in the English language that have examined the protective effects of lass="smallcaps">l-carnitine and its derivatives on endothelial dysfunction and platelet aggregation in pathological conditions. We searched experimental studies, clinical trials, and other review articles to obtain the materials.
Although in vitro physiological models, animal studies on vascular and platelet function, and some human studies on these systems are in favor of the preventive effects of lass="smallcaps">l-carnitine and its derivatives on endothelial dysfunction and platelet aggregation, more clinical trials are needed to clarify the clinical importance of lass="smallcaps">l-carnitine as a supportive option to maintain the normal homeostatic function of the vasculature and to prevent platelet activation.