Acetyl L-Carnitine is a form of L-carnitine, only acetylated. It is a very popular dietary supplement derived from amino acids, methionine and lysine. L-carnitine helps fatty acids to cross the membrane of the mitochondria and become available for usage. ALCAR, which is an alternate name for acetyl L-carnitine, is currently under research for possible treatment of Parkinson’s disease and cerebral ischemia. Neuroprotective benefits have been already attributed to ALCAR, but also assistance in cases of Peyronie’s disease, strokes and in treatment of depression. In food it is very much present in Beef and other red meats, in smaller quantities in mushrooms and carrots. Scientific studies have verified that regular supplements of L-carnitine improve the energy metabolism and can promote the neurotransmitter functions in brains of elderly people.

Ascorbyl Palmitate is the fat-soluble form of vitamin C. This version of vitamin C is actually better and more readily used by the body. It can be stored in cell membranes, unlike water soluble ascorbic acid which quickly exits the body. Ascorbyl Palmitate is integral in supporting the immune system as well as helping manufacturing collagen and is a powerful anti-oxidant helping keep body free of free-radicals that can damage cells and even cause cancer. Using Ascorbyl Palmitate helps guarantee that the positive effects of vitamin C are able to stay in the body and not be excreted soon after taking a supplement.

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that temporarily wards off drowsiness and boosts alertness and energy.

Lecithin is needed by every cell in the body and is a key building block of cell membranes; without it, they would harden. Lecithin protects cells from oxidation and largely comprises the protective sheaths surrounding the brain. It is composed mostly of B vitamins, phosphoric acid, choline, linoleic acid and inositol. Although it is a fatty substance, it is also a fat emulsifier.

Octopamine is a biogenic substance which is containing an amine group, apparently related to noradrenaline, which is a catecholamine functioning as both, neurotransmitter and a hormone. Similar to norepinephrine, which is another name for noradrenaline, octopamine may act as a stress hormone, triggering increased heart rate, energy consumption and blood flow, even the blood pressure. One side effect of octopamine is apparently the release of fat from the adipocytes, which are the fat cells where excess energy is being stored. This side effect prompted the use of octopamine as a dietary supplement aimed at weight loss, but used in combination with other stimulants. Octopamine has been discovered in the middle of the twentieth century, but the use as a fat removal agent is very recent.

Synephrine is used in some products. It is also called oxedrine, and is an aromatic compound with a hydroxyl group at the para position of its benzene ring. It is derived from the fruit of Citrus aurantium, and can be taken orally or by injection. Its pharmacology is not extensively studied, but some health benefits are associated to it. It is believed to burn fat and help in weight loss. It also increases the metabolic rate and energy level. Further research might indicate more benefits of the product.

Yohimbine HCL, sometimes called yohimbine hydrochloride, yohimbe, or yohimbe bark, is an herbal supplement which serves as a stimulant and possible aphrodisiac for users. Yohimbine has also been shown to be successful in treating erectile dysfunction and impotence in men. It may serve to boost the sex drive of those who take it for aphrodisiac purposes. Some people are recommended to take yohimbine to combat their lower sex drives caused by antidepressants. Yohimbine has also been shown to help blood pressure levels and assist in weight loss. For these reasons, yohimbine is a popular supplement amongst athletes as well as many others wishing to improve their health.