Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Protein Hydrolysate
Classification
Therapeutic: Nutritional supplement, Parenteral nutrition adjunct
Pharmacological: Amino acid preparation derived from protein hydrolysis
FDA Approved Indications
- Nutritional support in patients with inadequate oral or enteral intake, malabsorption, or increased nutritional needs
Mechanism of Action
Provides free amino acids derived from hydrolyzed proteins, which are utilized by the body for protein synthesis and metabolic functions.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: By infusion, dose individualized based on nutritional requirements; common starting concentration is 5%.
Pediatric: Dose based on age, weight, and clinical condition; typically administered via infusion similar to adult protocols.
Geriatric: Adjust dose considering renal and hepatic function; monitor for fluid overload.
Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be necessary; monitor renal function.
Hepatic Impairment: Use caution; monitor liver function and nutritional status.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Not applicable; administered intravenously.
Distribution: Distributed throughout body water compartments.
Metabolism: Utilized directly for protein synthesis or converted into energy.
Excretion: Metabolized into urea and other nitrogenous waste products primarily via kidneys.
Half Life: Dependent on administered dose and patient’s metabolic rate.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to protein hydrolysates or amino acid solutions.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment; monitor nitrogen balance and fluid status.
- Unused infusion: discard per protocol to prevent contamination.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Allergic reactions (hypersensitivity) (Uncommon)
- Mild infusion site reactions (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Anaphylaxis (Rare)
- Fluid overload leading to pulmonary edema (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- None specific; monitor for interactions with drugs affecting renal function or electrolyte balance.
Drug-Food Interactions
- Separate infusion from incompatible medications or solutions as per compatibility data.
Drug-Herb Interactions
- No established interactions.
Nursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor fluid status, electrolyte balance, renal and liver function, and for signs of allergic reaction.
Diagnoses:
- Imbalanced nutrition: less/more than body requirements
- Risk for fluid overload
- Risk for allergic reaction
Implementation: Administer via appropriate infusion pump, monitor sites, and adjust infusion rate as needed.
Evaluation: Adequacy of nutritional intake, absence of adverse reactions, normal laboratory parameters.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report any signs of allergic reactions, including rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling.
- Follow instructions on infusion site care.
- Inform about the purpose and expected effects of the supplement.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None currently applicable.
Genetic Factors: Genetic polymorphisms generally do not affect its use.
Lab Test Interference: May affect nitrogen balance measurements.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Potential fluid overload, electrolyte imbalance, allergic reactions.
Treatment: Discontinue infusion, support respiratory and cardiovascular functions as needed, and treat symptoms accordingly.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at controlled room temperature, protected from light and moisture.
Stability: Use within the manufacturer’s specified period after reconstitution or opening.