The mode of delivery of parenteral multivitamins influences nutrient handling in an animal model of total parenteral nutrition.

BACKGROUND

Very low birthweight preterm infants receive early total parenteral nutrition (TPN) to optimize protein balance. Adding multivitamins (MVP) to the lipid emulsion (MVP+LIP) rather than to the amino acid+dextrose moiety of TPN (AA+MVP) limits the effects of light exposure on lipid peroxidation and vitamin loss.

AIM

Compare the effects of the mode of delivery of MVP on nutrient handling and indices of oxidant stress.

METHODS

Three-day old guinea pig pups were assigned to TPN containing MVP+amino acids+dextrose+heparin and electrolytes, with lipids provided separately (AA+MVP). Solutions were light exposed (LE, n = 8) or light protected (LP, n = 9). In a further group (n = 7), MVP was co-administered with the lipid moiety and light exposed (LIP+MVP). Variables measured in urine (creatinine, nitrogen, vitamin C) and in liver (protein, glutathione, isoprostane, vitamins A, E, C) were compared by ANOVA.

RESULTS

Urinary nitrogen and vitamin C were higher (P<0.05) during LE, while hepatic levels of vitamin C were higher (P<0.05) with LIP+MVP. These results were not related to total peroxide levels in TPN or to markers of oxidant stress. CONCLUSION. Co-administration of MVP with lipid or light protected amino acids offers comparable beneficial effects on nitrogen and vitamin C metabolism.