Evaluation of a new amino acid source for use in parenteral nutrition.

Ninety-two patients, ranging from two days to 92 years of age, received parenteral nutrition using a new synthetic amino acid solution designed to provide optimal nitrogen retention and obviate metabolic complications. Weight gain and positive nitrogen balance were produced in the majority of patients. Hyperchloremic acidosis and hypophosphatemia did not occur. Hyperammonemia in infants was avoided with the exception of occasional, transient, asymptomatic elevations of blood ammonia in low birth weight infants. It was suspected that an inadequate nonprotein calorie/gram of nitrogen ratio may have been employed in these infants. Blood ammonia levels declined from initial levels in 80% of adult patient. Nitrogen retention was directly proportional to the supply of nonprotein calories.