betaine

Betaine is a naturally occurring choline derivative and methyl group donor used primarily to treat homocystinuria, an inherited disorder that results in elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood and urine. By donating a methyl group, betaine facilitates the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine, thereby lowering plasma homocysteine concentrations. This mechanism helps prevent complications such as blood clots, abnormal bone structure, osteoporosis, lens dislocation in the eye, and developmental delays associated with high homocysteine levels. Betaine is not a cure for homocystinuria but serves as an adjunct therapy to manage symptoms and reduce risk of serious complications. It is available as an oral powder or tablet for solution[1][2][3][7].

Brand names

CystadaneAmversioEnBrace HREnLyte

Other names

trimethylglycinebetaine anhydrous