Lipofundin Mct (Soya-Bean Oil Refined, Triglycerides, Medium Chain)

Lipofundin MCT is used in parenteral nutrition to provide essential fatty acids and calories for patients unable to receive enteral feeding.

• Parenteral nutrition for patients unable to receive enteral feeding: Provides a source of calories and essential fatty acids to maintain energy balance.
• Caloric supplementation in malnourished or critically ill patients: Helps meet increased metabolic demands and prevents essential fatty acid deficiency.
• Support for preterm infants requiring lipid nutrition: Supplies necessary long‑chain and medium‑chain fatty acids for growth and development.

• Medium-chain triglycerides in Lipofundin MCT are hydrolyzed by lipases to free fatty acids, which are rapidly taken up by peripheral tissues and oxidized for energy. The soy‑bean oil component supplies essential long‑chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, contributing to cell membrane synthesis and inflammatory mediator balance, thereby supporting overall metabolic needs during parenteral nutrition.

Lipofundin MCT may be associated with infusion‑related reactions and metabolic disturbances.

Common Side Effects

• Hypertriglyceridemia: Elevated blood triglyceride levels during therapy.
• Fever or chills: Transient temperature rise during infusion.
• Phlebitis: Irritation of the vein at the infusion site.
• Lipemia: Milky appearance of blood samples.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Fat overload syndrome: Accumulation of lipids leading to organ dysfunction.
• Allergic reaction: Anaphylaxis or severe hypersensitivity.
• Hepatic dysfunction: Elevated liver enzymes or cholestasis.
• Coagulopathy: Impaired blood clotting due to lipid interference.

When using Lipofundin MCT, clinicians should observe several precautions to ensure patient safety and product integrity.

• Patient assessment: Evaluate baseline triglyceride levels and liver function before initiation.
• Monitoring: Check serum triglycerides, liver enzymes, and electrolytes regularly during therapy.
• Infusion rate: Administer at the recommended rate to reduce risk of fat overload.
• Compatibility: Do not mix with calcium‑containing solutions or other lipid‑incompatible drugs.
• Contraindications: Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to soy or egg products.
• Store at 2‑8 °C: Keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake the emulsion.

Lipofundin MCT can interact with certain medications and clinical conditions, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Propofol: Concurrent use may increase lipid load and risk of hypertriglyceridemia.
• Heparin: May potentiate triglyceride elevation and affect lipid metabolism.
• Lipid‑soluble vitamins: High doses can lead to excessive accumulation.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Warfarin: Lipid emulsion may alter INR values; monitor coagulation.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine): May affect drug plasma levels.
• Total parenteral nutrition components: Adjust macronutrient balance to prevent excess calories.