Overview
Mitochondrial antioxidant stack — popularized as harm-reduction adjunct for MDMA neuroprotection.
- Dietary protein from animal sources (meat, fish, eggs, dairy) and plant sources (soy, legumes, grains)
- Free-form amino acid powders and capsules
- Targeted pre-workout, recovery, or sleep formulations
- Free-form crystalline powder
- Capsules or tablets
- Pre-mixed recovery or hydration beverages
- Time-release formulations
Mechanism of action
ALCAR supports mitochondrial β-oxidation; ALA is a universal antioxidant and recycles vit C/E and glutathione.
- · Mitochondrial energetics
- · Antioxidant recycling
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
ALCAR + ALA (Mitochondrial Protection) acts on hallmarks of aging including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and senescence signaling.
Evidence-based benefits
Animal evidence for reduced serotonergic neurotoxicity from MDMA
Limited evidencePotential side effects
- · Insomnia (ALCAR if late)
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Discuss with a clinician if you have active liver disease or take hepatotoxic medications.
Supplement interactions
- NAD+ precursor (NMN or NR)Complementary mitochondrial and sirtuin support.
- Omega-3Lowers inflammation and supports membrane integrity.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Amazon code supplementsch-20 is auto-applied at checkout. We don't endorse specific brands; verify third-party testing (USP, NSF, Informed Sport) before purchase.
Scientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Acetyl-L-carnitine and mitochondrial function
Pettegrew JW, et al.
Review of ALCAR in cognitive disorders.
Improved mitochondrial function and cognition in older adults.
PubMed: ALCAR + ALA (Mitochondrial Protection) — Animal evidence for reduced serotonergic neurotoxicity from MDMA
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PubMed: ALCAR + ALA (Mitochondrial Protection) — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: ALCAR + ALA (Mitochondrial Protection) — meta-analysis
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PubMed: ALCAR + ALA (Mitochondrial Protection) — pharmacokinetics
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Google Scholar: ALCAR + ALA (Mitochondrial Protection) — clinical evidence
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Includes preprints, theses, and journal articles. Useful for tracking citation counts and follow-on work.