Sloan RS, Smith B, Golper TA
The intradialytic effects of oral L-carnitine: results of a double blind placebo controlled trial
Am Soc Nephrol
J Am Soc Nephrol (abstract) (Nov) 6:588 1995

In a previous randomized controlled trial, intravenous L- carnitine supplementation was found to have benefits with regard to intradialytic symptoms, especially cramps and hypotension (Ahmad et al., KI 38:912, 1990). In this study 101 patients were followed for 3-6 months during which they were receiving carnitine 1 g post-dialysis orally or placebo. Intradialytic symptoms were assessed by questionnaire. No differences were found with respect to hypotension, cramps, or any other symptom.

Comment: This is an important negative study, but the beneficial effect of carnitine on muscle cramps might be more apparent in a crossover trial using only patients who suffer from this problem. (Daugirdas)

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Am Soc Nephrol
Basic hemodialysis : Complications (acute)