What is Lipo-C?
Lipo-C is a combination of 4 lipotropic supplements intended to aid in fat loss. The four ingredients are methionine, choline, carnitine, and dexpanthenol. Methionine is an essential amino acid that aids in the production of protein and antioxidants. Choline is an essential nutrient that carries fat away from the liver. Carnitine is derived from an amino acid and aids cells in the heart and muscle in converting fat into energy. Dexpanthenol is a form of Vitamin B5 which is used to make coenzyme A, which aids in fat breakdown.
Current Areas of Scientific Investigation
While there are not current studies evaluating the combination of methionine, choline, carnitine, and dexpanthenol, there are studies evaluating individual ingredients. A meta-analysis from 2016 reviewed nine studies and found that on average, people who took carnitine supplements lost an average of 1.33 kg more than people who took placebo1. Methionine has small studies to show that it can improve metabolic disorders (such as diabetes, steatosis, and insulin resistance), decrease inflammation, and improve bone health2. Choline aids in the production of methionine (via conversion from homocysteine). A trial with supplementation of dexpanthenol showed a reduction of total cholesterol compared to baseline3.
Potential Side Effects
While there are no large randomized controlled studies in the injectable dosage form, some common side effects reported are injection site reactions, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, fishy body odor, and headache.
An uncommon side effect is inflammation and nodules at the injection site.
Quality and Compliance Standards
There are many oral supplements over the counter that contain the ingredients of Lipo-C. Methionine, choline, carnitine, and dexpanthenol all have USP (United States Pharmacopeia) monographs and thus can be compounded.
Guidelines For Clinical Practice
Methionine, choline, carnitine, and dexpanthenol are all absorbed through the diet. A diet alone may be insufficient in maintaining levels of each throughout the body. They are available in a variety of over-the-counter supplements. They are also available as subcutaneous and intramuscular injections from a compounding pharmacy.
Dosing Protocols
There are no approved dosages or regimens for using Lipo-C, but the following are common dose ranges:
- Inject 0.5-2ml intramuscularly (IM) or subcutaneously (SQ) one to two times per week.
- Patients typically start at injecting 1ml IM or SQ one to two times per week, and can titrate up or down by 0.5ml per dose depending on effectiveness and side effects.
Product Specifications And Handling
- Strength and form: Methionine/Choline/Carnitine/Dexpanthenol 15-50-50-5mg/ml injection solution
- Vial sizes: 10ml or 30ml
- Route of administration SQ (subcutaneous) or IM (intramuscular)
Proper Storage And Beyond-Use Date
Lipo-C should be stored in the fridge from 36°F to 46°F. It will have a beyond-use date of approximately one month after the patient receives it.
Pricing For Your Practice
Lipo-C is not likely to be covered by insurance plans. Lipo-C is compounded from a bulk drug powder, which is often excluded from most insurance’s prescription drug plans.
How does Medivera Support Care?
Medivera Compounding Pharmacy has a staff of trained pharmacists eager to discuss Lipo-C or any other medications with you or your staff. They can address any questions you may have regarding dosing, storage, shipping, or any other matter you need assistance with.
Coordinated Prescription Fulfillment And Patient Care
Our pharmacy takes pride in providing excellent customer service. When we receive a prescription, our pharmacy team will contact the patient to arrange pick-up or delivery and have a pharmacist discuss the use of each medication. You can count on Medivera to accurately and quickly take care of your patients’ needs.
Discover How We Can Support Your Patients
Our team is ready to help with any questions you may have on starting your patients on Lipo-C or any other medication. We can also help in transitioning patients over from different pharmacies. Contact us today to address your questions and help your patients begin their journey to improved health.
Disclaimer: Lipo-C is a custom-compounded drug product. Compounded medications are prepared at the direction of a healthcare provider and are not approved by the FDA.
This document is provided as a response to solicited questions about the use of Lipo-C.