An oral controlled-release multiparticulate dosage form comprises a plurality of individually enteric coated particulates containing an L-carnitine that independently disperse in a patient's stomach after oral ingestion and travel through the stomach and past the pyloric sphincter without substantially releasing the L-carnitine in the stomach. The individual particulates contain (a) a solid core containing the L-carnitine, (b) a subcoating containing a cellulosic water soluble polymer over the core, and (c) an enteric coating over the subcoating. The dosage form may be used to treat conditions associated with a reduction of the amount of L-carnitine in the body.