Chun Zhang¹ , Liutong Shang², Lianqing An³, Wei Liu⁴, Yajun Zhang¹, Zhenjiang Liu¹

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of oral roxadustat plus L-carnitine for dialysis-induced anemia in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF). Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of 46 patients conducted on 100 CRF cases with dialysis-induced anemia treated at Xinjiang Armed Police Crops Hospital from March 2020 to March 2023. The participants were randomly distributed into study (n = 54) and control groups (n = 46). The control group received oral roxadustat (100 mg for patients weighing 45 - 60 kg, and 120 mg for patients ≥ 60 kg, thrice per week), while the study group was administered roxadustat in combination with L-carnitine (2 g injected using the dialysis machine before the end of each session). Anemia indices, and iron metabolism indices in the two groups were assessed before treatment and 3 months after treatment. Adverse effects were compared between groups. Results: The study group showed significantly higher red blood cell count, haemoglobin level as well as haematocrit after treatment compared to control group (p > 0.05). Also, total iron binding capacity, and serum iron and ferritin levels were significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Roxadustat combined with L-carnitine significantly reduces anemia and improves iron metabolism without increasing adverse reactions. However, there is a need for additional studies to assess the therapeutic potential of this combined regimen.