The effect of l-carnitine supplementation on lipid parameters, inflammatory and nutritional markers in maintenance hemodialysis patients

Abstract EN

Protein energy malnutrition and inflammation are common and usually concurrent in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients.

Carnitine, a small molecule involved in fatty acid metabolism, is significantly decreased in long-term HD patients.

L-Carnitine supplementation may have potential benefits in improving dialysis-related disorders.

However, there are conflicting reports with regard to the beneficial effects of L-Carnitine supplementation.

Hence, the present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of L-Carnitine supplementation on lipid parameters, apoproteins and inflammatory and nutritional markers in HD patients.

A total of 35 patients with end-stage renal disease, on MHD for a period of 2 to 5 years were recruited into the study.

The study group consisted of 20 patients who received Carnitine supplementation intravenously three times a week after each HD session, at 1 g / dose, while the control group consisted of 15 patients without supplementation with L-Carnitine.

Highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), total protein, albumin, lipid profile and apoprotein AI and B were determined at baseline and at the end of the study.

A significant decrease in the hsCRP levels was observed in the Carnitinesupplemented group (P < 0.05).

However, no significant change was observed in the lipid parameters and nutritional markers in the Carnitine-supplemented group.

In conclusion, the present study demonstrates the significant benefit of L-Carnitine supplementation on inflammatory status in MHD patients as noted by marked decrease in hsCRP levels in comparison with the control group.