Loading...
Loading...
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Amino Acid Hypertonic Solution [EPC]
Amino Acids (Hypertonic Solutions) are sterile, nonpyrogenic intravenous solutions used to provide a source of nitrogen for protein synthesis in patients who cannot receive adequate oral or enteral nutrition.
Name
Amino Acids
Raw Name
AMINO ACIDS
Category
Amino Acid Hypertonic Solution [EPC]
Drug Count
9
Variant Count
9
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Amino Acids
Amino Acids (Hypertonic Solutions) are sterile, nonpyrogenic intravenous solutions used to provide a source of nitrogen for protein synthesis in patients who cannot receive adequate oral or enteral nutrition.
Detailed information about Amino Acids
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Amino Acids.
The history of amino acid solutions is a cornerstone of modern intensive care. Before the development of crystalline amino acid solutions in the late 1960s and early 1970s, clinicians used protein hydrolysates, which were often associated with higher rates of adverse reactions and less predictable nitrogen utilization. The FDA has approved various formulations of amino acids over the decades, tailoring them for specific patient needs, including neonates, patients with renal failure, and those with hepatic impairment. These medications belong to a broader therapeutic category of nutritional agents and are typically administered in hospital or home-infusion settings under strict medical supervision.
At the molecular level, amino acids are the fundamental building blocks of proteins. In a healthy individual, these are obtained through the digestion of dietary protein. However, in states of severe illness, trauma, or malabsorption, the body may enter a catabolic state where it breaks down its own muscle tissue to provide amino acids for vital functions and gluconeogenesis (the creation of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources).
When administered intravenously, these solutions bypass the digestive system and enter the systemic circulation directly. The primary mechanism of action is the provision of a balanced nitrogen source. Nitrogen is essential for the synthesis of structural proteins (like muscle and skin), functional proteins (like enzymes and hemoglobin), and signaling molecules (like hormones). By providing an exogenous source of nitrogen, amino acid solutions help achieve a positive nitrogen balance. This prevents the body from depleting its endogenous protein stores, supports the immune system's ability to produce antibodies, and facilitates the repair of damaged tissues.
Furthermore, specific amino acids within these solutions play specialized roles. For example, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine are particularly important for muscle metabolism and can serve as an energy source during metabolic stress. Other amino acids like arginine may support immune function and wound healing through the production of nitric oxide. Your healthcare provider will select a formulation that matches your specific metabolic requirements.
Amino acid solutions are FDA-approved for several critical indications:
Amino acids are available only as injectable solutions. They are never provided as oral tablets or capsules in a clinical pharmaceutical context (though dietary supplements exist, they are not regulated as drugs). Common forms include:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Amino Acids is right for your specific condition. The selection of the specific formulation and concentration is a complex medical decision based on your laboratory values and clinical status.
The dosage of amino acids is highly individualized and must be calculated by a healthcare professional, often a clinical pharmacist or a registered dietitian, in consultation with a physician. For a standard adult with normal organ function, the typical protein requirement ranges from 1.0 to 2.0 grams of amino acids per kilogram of body weight per day.
The total volume of the infusion is determined by the patient's fluid requirements and the concentration of the solution used. Most adult patients receive between 1.5 to 2.5 liters of total parenteral nutrition solution over a 24-hour period.
Pediatric patients, especially neonates and infants, have significantly higher protein requirements per kilogram of body weight to support rapid growth and development.
Specific pediatric formulations (e.g., Aminosyn-PF or TrophAmine) are used because they contain amino acids like taurine and histidine, which are considered essential for developing infants but non-essential for adults.
In patients with acute or chronic renal failure who are not receiving dialysis, amino acid intake is often restricted to minimize the buildup of urea (azotemia). Specialized solutions containing primarily essential amino acids may be used. However, if the patient is on hemodialysis or CRRT (Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy), protein requirements actually increase (up to 1.5-2.5 g/kg/day) because amino acids are lost through the dialysis membrane.
Patients with severe liver disease may require specialized 'Hepatamine' type solutions. These are formulated with higher levels of Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAA) and lower levels of Aromatic Amino Acids (AAA) to help prevent or treat hepatic encephalopathy (brain dysfunction caused by liver failure).
Older adults often have reduced renal clearance and a higher prevalence of heart failure. Dosing should be conservative, starting at the lower end of the range, with frequent monitoring of fluid status and kidney function.
Amino acid solutions are administered via an intravenous infusion.
In a hospital setting, parenteral nutrition is usually delivered via an infusion pump on a strict schedule. If an infusion is interrupted, your healthcare provider will determine how to safely restart it. Do not attempt to 'double up' the rate to catch up, as this can cause severe metabolic disturbances like hyperglycemia or electrolyte shifts.
An 'overdose' of amino acids typically manifests as metabolic complications rather than acute toxicity.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust the infusion rate or attempt to add medications to the bag without medical guidance.
Because amino acids are naturally occurring substances, 'side effects' are often related to the metabolic processing of the infusion rather than a reaction to the drug itself.
> Warning: Stop the infusion and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency care if you experience any of the following:
Patients receiving amino acids as part of long-term TPN (months to years) are at risk for:
There are currently no FDA Black Box Warnings specifically for standard crystalline amino acid solutions. However, there is a Prominent Warning regarding aluminum toxicity in parenteral products. The label states that these products contain no more than 25 mcg/L of aluminum, but even this amount can accumulate to toxic levels in premature infants and patients with impaired kidney function during prolonged administration.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately. Regular blood tests are required to monitor for these side effects.
Amino acid solutions are high-alert medications that require precise calculation and administration. They should only be used in clinical settings where frequent laboratory monitoring is available. Patients must be assessed for fluid status, electrolyte balance, and organ function prior to and during therapy.
No FDA black box warnings for Amino Acids. However, clinical guidelines from organizations like ASPEN (American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition) emphasize the high risk of medication errors and infection associated with these products.
Patients receiving amino acids require frequent 'TPN labs,' which typically include:
Amino acids themselves do not typically cause sedation or cognitive impairment. However, the underlying conditions requiring IV nutrition (such as severe illness or recovery from major surgery) usually preclude driving or operating heavy machinery. If you experience dizziness or confusion (potential signs of hyperammonemia or electrolyte imbalance), do not drive and contact your doctor.
Alcohol should be avoided while receiving amino acid therapy. Alcohol can worsen liver stress, interfere with the metabolism of nutrients, and contribute to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, complicating the management of parenteral nutrition.
Amino acid infusions should not be stopped abruptly, especially if they are being administered with high concentrations of dextrose. Sudden discontinuation can lead to 'rebound hypoglycemia' (dangerously low blood sugar). Healthcare providers typically taper the infusion rate down over several hours before stopping it entirely.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially heart, kidney, or liver disease, with your healthcare provider before starting Amino Acids.
There are few absolute contraindications regarding drug-drug interactions, but physical incompatibility in the IV line is a major concern.
Since amino acids are given to patients who generally cannot eat, 'food interactions' usually refer to the transition back to oral intake.
Patients on IV amino acids should not take herbal supplements without consulting their medical team.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. The chemical compatibility of medications in an IV bag is a complex science managed by your clinical pharmacist.
Amino acid solutions must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring a careful risk-benefit analysis include:
Patients with severe allergies to certain protein sources (though rare with crystalline amino acids) should be monitored. More commonly, cross-sensitivity occurs with the sulfite preservatives found in many amino acid brands. If you have an allergy to sulfites (common in some wines or dried fruits), you may react to certain IV amino acid brands.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including genetic metabolic disorders, before prescribing Amino Acids.
Amino acids are generally considered safe and often essential during pregnancy if the mother is unable to maintain nutrition through the digestive tract. They are typically classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C.
Amino acids are normal constituents of human milk. While the infusion itself is not contraindicated during breastfeeding, the underlying maternal illness that requires TPN may affect milk production. If a nursing mother receives amino acids, the infant is generally not at risk, but the healthcare provider should monitor the infant for any unusual changes in growth or feeding patterns.
Amino acid therapy is a life-saving intervention in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Elderly patients require cautious dosing due to:
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment and frequent laboratory follow-up to ensure safety and efficacy.
Amino acids are the building blocks of all cellular proteins. When administered intravenously, they provide the necessary nitrogen and carbon skeletons for the synthesis of structural proteins, enzymes, and hormones. By providing these substrates directly into the blood, the medication prevents the body from entering a catabolic state where it would otherwise break down skeletal muscle to meet its metabolic needs. This is particularly critical in 'stress' states (sepsis, surgery, burns) where the body's demand for protein synthesis is significantly elevated.
The primary pharmacodynamic effect is the achievement of a Positive Nitrogen Balance. This is measured by comparing the amount of nitrogen administered (via the amino acids) to the amount of nitrogen excreted (measured as Urinary Urea Nitrogen or UUN).
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | 100% (Intravenous) |
| Protein Binding | N/A (These are the precursors to proteins) |
| Half-life | Variable (minutes to hours for individual amino acids) |
| Tmax | Immediate (IV administration) |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (Deamination and Urea Cycle) |
| Excretion | Renal (primarily as Urea) |
Amino acids belong to the class of Amino Acid Hypertonic Solutions. They are often grouped with other parenteral nutrition components like Dextrose (carbohydrates) and Lipid Emulsions (fats). Related medications include specific brands like Aminosyn, FreAmine, Travasol, and TrophAmine, each with slightly different ratios of amino acids to target specific clinical needs.
Medications containing this ingredient
Common questions about Amino Acids
Amino acid solutions are primarily used in parenteral nutrition for patients who cannot eat or digest food normally. This includes people with severe gastrointestinal diseases, those recovering from major surgeries, or patients in intensive care with severe burns or trauma. By providing the building blocks of protein directly into the bloodstream, these solutions help prevent muscle wasting and support the body's healing processes. They are also used in specialized forms to treat patients with kidney or liver failure. Your healthcare provider will determine the exact formulation based on your nutritional needs and medical history.
The most common side effects are often related to the infusion process and the metabolic load on the body. These can include redness or irritation at the injection site, mild nausea, and increased blood sugar levels. Some patients may also experience increased urination or a slight fever as the body processes the nutrients. More serious but less common side effects include electrolyte imbalances or a buildup of nitrogen waste in the blood. Because these solutions are given in a clinical setting, your medical team will monitor you closely to manage these effects. Always report any discomfort or unusual symptoms during your infusion.
Drinking alcohol is strongly discouraged while receiving intravenous amino acid therapy. Alcohol can interfere with how your liver processes the amino acids and can worsen the underlying conditions that require IV nutrition. It also increases the risk of dehydration and can cause dangerous shifts in your electrolyte levels. Furthermore, alcohol can add additional stress to the liver, which is already working hard to process the concentrated nutrients in the infusion. If you have a history of alcohol use, it is vital to discuss this with your doctor before starting treatment. Your medical team needs to ensure your liver and kidneys are healthy enough to handle the therapy.
Amino acids are generally considered safe and are often necessary during pregnancy if the mother cannot receive adequate nutrition through eating. Maintaining proper protein levels is critical for the healthy development of the fetus and the prevention of low birth weight. Doctors categorize these solutions as Pregnancy Category C, meaning they are used when the benefits to the mother and baby outweigh any potential risks. Your healthcare provider will carefully monitor your blood work and the baby's growth throughout the treatment. It is a standard part of care for pregnant women with severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum) or other digestive issues. Always follow the specific guidance provided by your obstetrician and nutrition team.
The cellular uptake of amino acids begins almost immediately after the intravenous infusion starts. However, the visible clinical benefits, such as improved wound healing or an increase in lean body mass, may take several days or even weeks to become apparent. Doctors monitor the effectiveness of the treatment through regular blood tests, looking for improvements in markers like prealbumin or a 'positive nitrogen balance.' The duration of the treatment depends entirely on how long it takes for your digestive system to recover or for your nutritional status to stabilize. Some patients may only need it for a few days after surgery, while others with chronic conditions may require it long-term. Your medical team will provide regular updates on your progress.
You should never stop an amino acid infusion suddenly without medical supervision. These infusions are usually given alongside high concentrations of dextrose (sugar), and stopping the pump abruptly can cause your blood sugar to drop to dangerously low levels, a condition called rebound hypoglycemia. Additionally, your body needs time to adjust its metabolic processes back to a state of internal regulation. Healthcare providers typically 'taper' the infusion by slowly reducing the rate over several hours. This allows your hormones, like insulin and glucagon, to stabilize. If your infusion pump stops or malfunctions, contact your nurse or home infusion provider immediately for instructions.
In a hospital, doses are managed by staff, but if you are on home parenteral nutrition and miss a dose or the infusion is interrupted, contact your healthcare provider or home infusion pharmacy immediately. Do not try to 'catch up' by increasing the infusion rate on your own, as this can lead to fluid overload, high blood sugar, or electrolyte imbalances. Your doctor will provide a specific plan for how to resume your nutrition safely. It is helpful to keep a log of your infusion times and any interruptions to share with your medical team. Consistent delivery of these nutrients is important for your recovery and overall health.
Amino acid infusions are designed to provide essential nutrition, which can lead to weight gain in patients who were previously malnourished or losing weight due to illness. However, this is generally considered 'healthy' weight gain, as it represents the restoration of muscle mass and fluid balance rather than just fat accumulation. In some cases, rapid weight gain can be a sign of fluid retention, which may indicate that the infusion is too fast or that your heart or kidneys are struggling with the fluid load. Your healthcare provider will weigh you regularly and monitor for swelling in your legs or shortness of breath. The goal of therapy is to reach and maintain a stable, healthy weight for your body type.
Amino acids can interact with other medications, particularly regarding physical compatibility in the IV line. Some drugs can form crystals or precipitates when mixed with amino acid solutions, which can be life-threatening if they enter the bloodstream. Therefore, you should never add any other medications directly into the nutrition bag yourself. Your pharmacist will check the 'Y-site compatibility' of any other IV drugs you are receiving. Additionally, certain medications like steroids or diuretics can affect how your body uses the amino acids or manages electrolytes. Always provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to ensure a safe treatment plan.
Yes, amino acid solutions are available in various generic formulations. While they may be marketed under brand names like Aminosyn, Travasol, or FreAmine, the actual content is a standardized mixture of crystalline amino acids. The specific 'recipe' or ratio of amino acids may vary between brands, and some are specially formulated for infants or patients with kidney or liver disease. Your hospital's pharmacy or your insurance provider may prefer a specific brand or generic version based on cost and availability. Regardless of the brand, all FDA-approved amino acid solutions must meet strict standards for purity, sterility, and nutritional content. Your doctor will ensure the version you receive is appropriate for your specific medical needs.