The purpose of this drug is to prevent and treat low levels of carnitine in the blood. The body produces carnitine from meat and dairy products. It supports the body's utilization of specific substances (long-chain fatty acids) for energy and health. People who cannot adequately use the carnitine in their diets, those receiving dialysis thanks to severe kidney illness, and those on certain medications (such as valproic acid and zidovudine) may experience low blood levels of carnitine. Problems with the liver, heart, and muscles can result from low amounts of carnitine.