Amino acids for parenteral nutrition in premature and newborn infants. Use of a mother's milk-adapted solution.

Crystalline L-amino acids are now used almost exclusively to meet the amino acid (AA) requirements in parenteral nutrition (PN). Important criteria for judging the solutions, which are composed of different AA patterns, are: attainment of a positive nitrogen (N) balance, absence of acidosis, hyperammonemia, or toxic side effects. Presently, great importance is attached to the analysis of AA concentrations in serum or plasma under infusion conditions. Within the scope of the infused regimen, type and amount of additional calorie supplies also must be taken into account. Orally administered nutrients must be balanced when the patient is switched to partial PN.