Optimum preparation of levocarnitine chloride solution in the hospital pharmacy

Levocarnitine chloride is used for the therapeutic purpose of levocarnitine deficiency. For infants, however, levocarnitine chloride tablets must be crushed to avoid difficulties associated with swallowing, and also to administer an appropriately low dosage. Since the tablet is extremely hygroscopic and sour, it is dissolved in water containing simple syrup after crushing. In this study we investigated the stability of the drug after dissolution to optimize its preparation for clinical use. It was shown to be stable for at least 90 days after preparation, and microbes did not grow in 1-10% (w/v) solutions (pH 2.0-2.5) regardless of the presence or absence of simple syrup. Furthermore, the autoclaved levocarnitine chloride solution was as stable as the non-autoclaved one. In conclusion, the method employed in our hospital for the preparation of levocarnitine chloride for infants is appropriate and is recommended as a standard medicine supply method among different facilities.