Intralipid 20 % intravenous emulsion

Generic name:
Fat emulsion - injection

Brand name(s)
Intralipid , Liposyn

This product is used to provide calories to patients who are getting their nutrition through an injection into the vein. Calories are needed to provide the body with energy so that the body can work properly. This product is also used to provide a certain nutrient (essential fatty acids) to people who do not have enough of it. This product helps to prevent or reverse the signs of this deficiency (such as scaly skin, poor growth, poor wound healing).

This product is given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor. Before using, check this product for particles, oil, or discoloration. If you see any of these things, do not use the liquid. Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Except for heparin, do not add any medication/minerals to the product container.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, weight, and response to treatment.

Headache, flushing, nausea, vomiting, or sweating may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever)
• pain/swelling/redness at injection site
• pain/swelling/redness of arms/legs
• bluish skin
• sudden weight gain
• shortness of breath
• back/chest pain
• mental/mood changes
• bone pain
• muscle weakness
• easy bruising/bleeding
• signs of liver disease (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine)

This product has rarely caused serious (rarely fatal) breathing problems in newborns and infants when it is given too rapidly. The risk may be higher in premature or low-birth-weight infants. Infants/newborns must be monitored closely while receiving this product. If you notice the following unlikely but serious side effect in infants/newborns, get medical help right away: rapid/shallow breathing.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

See also Warning section.

Before receiving the fat emulsion, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to eggs, safflower oil, or soy/peanut found in some brands; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• high fat (lipid) levels in the blood
• liver disease
• kidney disease
• lung disease
• anemia
• blood clotting disorder

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be at greater risk for bone pain and mental/mood changes while using this drug.

Children may be at greater risk for liver disease while using this drug. Newborns and infants may also be at greater risk for bone pain and mental/mood changes while using this drug.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medication may interfere with certain lab tests possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood count, liver/kidney function, lipid panel) should be done before you start using this medication and while you are using it. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store the unopened product at room temperature away from light. Do not freeze. Keep the medication in the original pouch until ready to use. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.