What is Intralipid?
Intralipid is a type of intravenous fat emulsion used for intravenous nutrition support. It is made up of soybean oil, egg phospholipids, glycerin and water and is used to provide essential fatty acids, calories, minerals, and vitamins to patients with specific nutritional deficiencies. It is also used in certain medical treatments, such as drug overdoses and lipid infusions.
When is Intralipid used?
Intralipid is a type of fat emulsion intravenous (IV) nutrition typically used as a source of calories and essential fatty acids in patients who cannot take food orally. It is used to treat or prevent essential fatty acid deficiency, commonly due to fat-malabsorption disorders or medical conditions requiring long-term parenteral nutrition, such as severe illness or surgery.
How long does Intralipid stay in your system?
Intralipid generally stays in the system for about 24 hours. It is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys, so it can take some time for it to completely clear your body.
What are contraindications with Intralipid?
Contraindications with Intralipid include known hypersensitivity to soy or egg lecithin, liver or kidney diseases, or any other conditions that may affect the ability to absorb and metabolize fat. Individuals should talk to their doctor before taking Intralipid if they have a history of any of these conditions.
What are side effects of Intralipid?
Side effects associated with Intralipid infusion may include short term chills, nausea, vomiting, and anaphylactoid reactions. Other rare side effects can include chest pain, lightheadedness, abdominal discomfort, headache, flushing, dizziness, rash or hives, itching, and fever.