Dr DeFelice, credited with coining the term “nutraceutical,” is an accomplished researcher, physician, author and advocate who did early research into the use of carnitine for a number of medical purposes and conducted the first clinical trial with it in the United States. He sponsored and undertook a series of laboratory studies which demonstrated that carnitine had multiple beneficial cardiovascular and other medical effects.
Through his further research and efforts he secured FDA approval for two clinical indications for the use of carnitine - Primary Carnitine Deficiency, a fatal disease in children and for renal dialysis patients. As a result many children's lives have been saved and the quality of life of dialysis patients improved. He is currently undertaking the initiation of clinical studies using carnitine on patients with ovarian cancer.
Dr DeFelice also founded the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine and has worked with Rep. Frank Pallone, D-NJ, on dietary supplement regulations. Pallone, too, was recognized recently for his work in the field with an award from the Natural Products Association.