Studies on the toxicity and efficacy of a new amino acid solution in pediatric parenteral nutrition.

The optimum composition and concentration of crystalline amino acid solutions necessary for growth and brain maturation in critically ill infants requiring total parenteral nutrition (TPN) are unknown. Either an excess or a deficiency of amino acids could theoretically impair normal brain development in the neonate. The purpose of this study was to compare the toxicity and efficacy of two intravenous amino acid solutions, Neopham, modeled after the amino acid pattern found in human breast milk, and Aminosyn, a marketed product, designed for general usage. Sixteen infants and children requiring continuous intravenous nutrition for at least 7 days received the Neopham amino acid solution, and eight infants and children received the Aminosyn amino acid solution as part of a total parenteral nutrition regimen which included glucose, the fat emulsion Intralipid, as well as routine mineral and vitamin additives. There were no significant differences in mean gestational age, body weight, postnatal age, or mean daily nutrient intake between the patients receiving Aminosyn or Neopham. The daily nitrogen intake, excretion, and retention were similar in both groups. In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in either hematological or biochemical parameters between the two study groups. The plasma levels of three essential amino acids, isoleucine, methionine, and valine, rose significantly higher in the Aminosyn-treated patients. The plasma levels of all the essential amino acids increased in both study groups.