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

Lipidem, an omega‑3 fatty acid lipid emulsion, is used in parenteral nutrition to address essential fatty acid deficiency.

• Parenteral nutrition in patients requiring intravenous lipid supplementation: supplies calories and essential fatty acids to support metabolic needs.
• Prevention of essential fatty acid deficiency: provides omega‑3 and omega‑6 fatty acids to maintain cell membrane integrity.
• Support for patients with prolonged fasting or malabsorption: delivers a concentrated source of energy and lipids when oral intake is insufficient.

• Omega-3-Acid Triglycerides are hydrolyzed after intravenous infusion to release free fatty acids, which are incorporated into phospholipid membranes and serve as substrates for beta‑oxidation, providing energy. The emulsion also supplies essential omega‑3 and omega‑6 fatty acids that cannot be synthesized endogenously, thereby preventing deficiency and supporting cellular functions during parenteral nutrition.

Lipidem may be associated with several adverse reactions following intravenous administration.

Common Side Effects

• Elevated triglyceride levels: transient rise in serum triglycerides.
• Mild fever: low‑grade temperature increase during infusion.
• Transient hyperlipidemia: temporary increase in blood lipid concentrations.
• Infusion site erythema: redness at the catheter entry point.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylactic reaction: severe allergic response requiring immediate medical intervention.
• Acute pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas, potentially life‑threatening.
• Fat overload syndrome: excessive lipid accumulation leading to organ dysfunction.
• Liver dysfunction: abnormal liver enzyme elevations indicating hepatic stress.

When using Lipidem, clinicians should observe specific safety measures.

• Monitor triglyceride levels: check serum triglycerides regularly during therapy.
• Assess liver function: evaluate hepatic enzymes before and during treatment.
• Observe for signs of infection: watch infusion site for redness or swelling.
• Avoid concurrent high‑fat infusions: limit other lipid emulsions to reduce risk of fat overload.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Lipidem can interact with other medications and therapies; awareness of these interactions helps minimize risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use of other lipid emulsions: may cause fat overload syndrome.
• High-dose propofol infusion: increases risk of hypertriglyceridemia.
• Corticosteroids: can exacerbate triglyceride elevation.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Heparin therapy: may affect plasma lipid levels, monitor triglycerides.
• Statins: monitor for liver enzyme changes.