Lipidem (Omega-3-Acid Triglycerides, Soya-Bean Oil Refined, Triglycerides, Medium Chain)

Lipidem is used in clinical settings that require intravenous lipid supplementation to meet nutritional and metabolic needs.

• Parenteral nutrition: supplies calories and essential fatty acids to patients unable to receive enteral feeding.
• Essential fatty acid deficiency: restores omega‑3 and omega‑6 fatty acid levels in patients with prolonged intravenous feeding.
• Critical illness: supports energy requirements and cell‑membrane synthesis in critically ill patients receiving total parenteral nutrition.

• Lipidem delivers a mixture of omega‑3 fatty acid triglycerides, medium‑chain triglycerides, and refined soybean‑oil triglycerides directly into the bloodstream. The lipids are hydrolyzed to free fatty acids, which are oxidized for energy, incorporated into phospholipids for cell‑membrane formation, and provide essential fatty acids that cannot be synthesized by the body.

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

Common Side Effects

• Hypertriglyceridaemia: elevated serum triglyceride levels during therapy.
• Fever or chills: transient temperature rise at the start of infusion.
• Infusion site reactions: erythema, pain, or swelling at the catheter site.
• Lipemia of blood samples: milky appearance affecting laboratory analysis.
• Mild hepatic enzyme elevation: transient increase in ALT/AST.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Fat overload syndrome: severe hyperlipidaemia with organ dysfunction.
• Allergic reactions: urticaria, bronchospasm, or anaphylaxis.
• Thrombocytopenia: reduced platelet count in susceptible individuals.
• Hepatic dysfunction: significant rise in liver enzymes or cholestasis.
• Coagulopathy: impaired clotting parameters in high‑dose or prolonged use.

When using Lipidem, clinicians should observe specific safety measures to minimise risk.

• Monitor triglyceride levels: check serum triglycerides regularly during therapy.
• Assess liver function: perform baseline and periodic hepatic enzyme testing.
• Watch for infection: avoid use in uncontrolled sepsis unless benefits outweigh risks.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: contraindicated in patients allergic to fish or soy oils.
• Use aseptic technique: ensure sterile handling and administration of the emulsion.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Lipidem can interact with other agents that influence lipid metabolism or coagulation.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent lipid emulsions: combined use may cause fat overload syndrome.
• Propofol infusion: additive lipid load can markedly increase serum triglycerides.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticoagulants: lipid infusion may affect platelet function and bleeding risk.
• Corticosteroids: may potentiate hypertriglyceridaemia, requiring closer monitoring.
• Diabetes medications: monitor blood glucose as lipid calories can affect glycaemic control.