In children undergoing hemodialysis, a higher prevalence of carnitine deficiency was evident in this study. This deficiency was found to be significantly linked with increased intradialytic symptoms, including muscle spasms and hypotension.

• In this pilot study of 29 children (mean age of 14.23 years) undergoing hemodialysis, the prevalence and characteristics of carnitine deficiency as well as its link with hemodialysis complications was assessed.

• Presence of carnitine deficiency was evident in 54.8% of the patients.

• No significant correlation was found between carnitine deficiency and age, gender, and blood urea nitrogen levels.

• Patients having carnitine deficiency more frequently developed intradialytic complications, including episodes of hypotension and muscle cramps.

• Other causes for muscle cramps, such as fluid overload, nutritional status, dialysis regimen, and other crucial lab results (phosphorus, magnesium, etc.), were ruled out.

• These observations could support that carnitine supplementation in this population has a potential role for controlling intradialytic complications.