Elimination of fat emulsions of various concentrations from the blood. Observational study in the intravenous administration of Lipovenös 10% and 20% in premature infants with very low birth weight

Within the scope of an observation study 40 premature low birth weight infants requiring parenteral nutrition received either 10% or 20% lipid emulsions (Lipovenös) for 7 days. The 10% lipid emulsion differs from the 20% lipid emulsion in the higher phospholipid/triglyceride-ratio (0.06 resp. 0.12). Lipid infusion was commenced at 0.5 g triglyceride/kg/24 hours and increased steadily to 2 g triglyceride/kg/24 hours. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of the two intravenously administered lipid emulsions on serum clearance. The serum concentrations of triglyceride and cholesterol did not change significantly during the infusion with 20% Lipovenös. Significant increases in the triglyceride and cholesterol content were observed only in the serum of the patients who were given the 10% Lipovenös. The reduced lipid serum clearance is attributable to the higher content of phospholipids in the 10% lipid emulsion. With regard to the risk of high cholesterol concentrations and an abnormal LPX serum accumulation, administration of 20% lipid emulsion is preferable to 10% lipid emulsion, also during the neonatal period.