Intravenous solutions in parenteral nutrition.

A review of the theoretical basis on which amino acid intravenous solutions are formulated leads to the conclusion that the first class protein model is not ideal for the very small premature infant. Comparison of the serum and urine amino acid levels in a controlled trial between intravenous feeding with "Vamin" and intragastric milk feeding, and further comparison of these values with the cord blood values of premature infants supports the conclusion that the first class protein model is not ideal. The balance studies also support the view that the urinary output of amino acids, as well as the serum levels, should be taken into account in determining the ideal amino acid input.