20 Fat Emulsion Injectio

Component of parenteral nutrition for patients unable to be fed enterally; supplies essential fatty acids and energy (20% lipid emulsion).

Intravenous infusion via a peripheral or central line, alone or as part of a total parenteral nutrition admixture; use aseptic compounding technique.

Often 1–2 g fat/kg/day (e.g. up to 500 ml of 20% emulsion daily in adults), infused slowly over 8–24 hours; avoid exceeding 3 g fat/kg/day in adults. Children per body weight under specialist guidance.

Monitor triglycerides, blood glucose, liver function and fluid balance; avoid in severe hyperlipidaemia, acute pancreatitis with hypertriglyceridaemia and uncontrolled diabetes. Watch for infection risk from central lines and do not use if the emulsion has separated or discoloured.