LAUSR

ABSTRACT Objectives This study aimed to explore the quantitative efficacy of L-carnitine supplementation on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients using model-based meta-analysis (MBMA). Methods Literatures were retrieved from the public database and data from these trials were extracted. The quantitative efficacy of L-carnitine on fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients were evaluated by maximal effect (Emax) models with nonlinear mixed effects modeling (NONMEM). Results In the model of FPG, Emax and treatment duration to reach half of the maximal effects (ET50) were −9.8% and 36.1 weeks, respectively. In the model of HbA1c, Emax and ET50 were −19.6% and 106 weeks, respectively. In addition, the durations for achieving 25%, 50%, 75%, 80%, and 90% Emax of L-carnitine on FPG were 13, 36.1, 118, 160, and 390 weeks, respectively. The durations for achieving 25%, 50%, 75%, 80%, and 90% Emax of L-carnitine on HbA1c were 38, 106, 334, 449, and 1058 weeks, respectively. Conclusions It was the first time to provide valuable quantitative information for efficacy of L-carnitine supplementation on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.