Lipid Emulsion
Also known as: Intralipid, ClinOleic, Lipofundin, Omegaven
This medication is administered intravenously in a hospital setting. It is used either to provide essential nutrition when your pet cannot eat or absorb food normally, or as a life-saving emergency treatment to draw certain toxins out of your pet's system. Your veterinary team will closely monitor your pet's bloodwork to ensure their body is processing the fats correctly.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Parenteral nutrition
- Treatment of lipid-soluble toxicosis (e.g., ivermectin, moxidectin)
- Parenteral nutrition
- Treatment of lipid-soluble toxicosis (e.g., ivermectin, moxidectin)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Febrile episodes (mainly with 20% emulsions)
- Vasculitis
- Thrombosis
- Anaphylaxis (rare)
- Hepatic failure (with prolonged treatment)
- Pancreatitis (with prolonged treatment)
- Cardiac arrest (with prolonged treatment)
- Thrombocytopenia (with prolonged treatment)
Cautions & contraindications
- Insulin resistance (e.g., diabetes mellitus)
- Hyperlipidaemia
- Disrupted fat metabolism
- Do not use if separation of the emulsion occurs. Lines for IV parenteral feeding must be dedicated for that use alone. Daily checks are necessary to ensure complete clearance from the plasma. 20% and 30% lipid products have a higher rate of complications for nutritional use and are generally not recommended for standard parenteral nutrition.
Drug interactions
- Other IV medications: Physical incompatibility; requires dedicated IV line for parenteral feeding
- Biochemical assays: Lipaemia interferes with blood gas and calcium measurements if samples are taken before fat is cleared
Frequently asked questions
What is Lipid Emulsion used for in pets?
This medication is administered intravenously in a hospital setting. It is used either to provide essential nutrition when your pet cannot eat or absorb food normally, or as a life-saving emergency treatment to draw certain toxins out of your pet's system. Your veterinary team will closely monitor your pet's bloodwork to ensure their body is processing the fats correctly.
Is Lipid Emulsion safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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