Kabiven (Valine, Alanine, Arginine, Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Serin)

Kabiven is used in the field of parenteral nutrition to address protein and nitrogen needs when oral or enteral feeding is not possible.

• Inadequate oral or enteral intake: supplies a complete profile of essential amino acids to meet nutritional requirements.
• Critical illness or postoperative care: supports protein synthesis and helps preserve lean body mass.
• Contraindicated enteral feeding: provides an alternative route for delivering amino acids in malnourished patients.

• Kabiven delivers a balanced mixture of essential amino acids directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. The amino acids become substrates for protein synthesis, replenish nitrogen stores, and support cellular metabolism, thereby helping to maintain lean body mass and promote tissue repair in patients who cannot obtain nutrition enterally.

Kabiven may be associated with a range of infusion‑related reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Hyperglycaemia: elevated blood glucose levels during infusion.
• Electrolyte disturbances: changes in potassium, sodium or calcium concentrations.
• Infusion site reactions: erythema, pain or phlebitis at the catheter site.
• Nausea or vomiting: gastrointestinal discomfort during administration.
• Fever or chills: transient temperature rise.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylactic reaction: severe hypersensitivity requiring immediate medical intervention.
• Metabolic acidosis: significant pH reduction in blood.
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzyme elevations.
• Renal impairment: worsening kidney function in susceptible patients.
• Thrombophlebitis: clot formation with vein inflammation.

When using Kabiven, clinicians should observe several safety measures.

• Assess renal function: adjust dosage if creatinine clearance is reduced.
• Monitor electrolytes: check serum potassium, sodium and calcium regularly.
• Evaluate nitrogen balance: ensure adequate but not excessive protein provision.
• Adjust infusion rate: reduce speed in hemodynamically unstable patients.
• Use aseptic technique: prevent catheter‑related infections.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Kabiven can interact with other intravenous solutions and medications.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Calcium‑containing solutions: risk of precipitation with amino acids.
• High‑dose insulin therapy: may precipitate severe hypoglycaemia.
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., aminoglycosides): potential for reduced efficacy when mixed.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Loop diuretics: may exacerbate electrolyte shifts.
• Renal replacement therapy: may require dose adjustment of amino acid infusion.
• Steroid therapy: can increase protein catabolism, affecting nutritional goals.