Proliv-Plus

Indications

This is a nutrition solution containing amino acids (the building blocks of protein), glucose (a sugar for energy) and electrolytes (body salts such as sodium, potassium, magnesium and phosphate). It is mainly given by drip into a vein as parenteral nutrition for people who cannot eat or absorb enough food, for example after major surgery, with severe illness, burns, serious bowel disease or long-term vomiting. Some products with similar ingredients are taken by mouth as nutritional supplements; for those, follow the label.

How It Works

The amino acids are used by the body to build and repair proteins in muscles, organs and the immune system. Glucose supplies energy so that the amino acids can be used for tissue repair rather than burned for fuel. The electrolytes keep fluid balance, nerve and muscle function and heart rhythm normal.

Dosage and Administration

The infusion is given by a doctor or nurse, usually in hospital, through a vein in the arm or a central line. The amount and speed are prescribed according to body weight, illness, fluid needs and blood test results, and are adjusted daily. It is usually started slowly and stopped gradually.

Interactions

Medicines should only be added to the bag by the hospital pharmacy. People receiving Insulin may need dose changes because of the glucose. Solutions containing potassium need care with potassium-sparing medicines such as Spironolactone and with ACE inhibitors. Solutions containing calcium must not be given together with Ceftriaxone in newborn babies. Corticosteroids and diuretics can affect blood sugar and salt levels.

Contraindications

It is not used in people with:

• Inherited disorders of amino acid metabolism
• Severe kidney failure without dialysis, or severe liver failure
• Uncontrolled high blood sugar or high blood levels of the electrolytes it contains
• Fluid overload, severe heart failure or untreated shock
• Allergy to any ingredient

Side Effects

Possible side effects include:

• High blood sugar
• Pain, redness or swelling at the drip site, or vein irritation
• Nausea, flushing or chills if given too fast
• Changes in salt levels or liver blood tests
• Infection of the drip line

Tell the nurse or doctor at once, or get urgent medical help, if you develop fever or shivering, breathlessness, chest pain, swelling of the face or body, confusion, or a rash with difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

It may be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when nutrition by mouth is not possible, under close medical supervision.

Precautions and Warnings

Blood sugar, electrolytes, fluid balance and liver and kidney function are monitored regularly. In people who are severely malnourished, feeding is started slowly to prevent refeeding syndrome, a dangerous shift in salts. Strict hygiene is needed to prevent line infections.

Overdose

Giving too much or too fast can cause nausea, vomiting, shivering, high blood sugar, salt imbalance and fluid overload. The infusion is slowed or stopped and the patient is treated as needed.

Therapeutic Class

Parenteral nutrition solution (amino acids with carbohydrate and electrolytes).

Storage

Stored by the hospital as directed on the pack, usually below 25°C and protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.