Amino acid solutions
Synthetic crystalline L-amino acid solutions
Also known as: Duphalyte · Aminoplasmal · Aminoven · Clinimix · Glamin · Hyperamine · Intrafusin · Kabiven · Nutriflex · Parenteral nutrition solutions · TPN solutions · L-amino acid solutions
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Dosing by species
Dosing data for this drug is not yet available in the VetSheet formulary. Every other section below is complete. Consult the current product label before prescribing.
Overview
Amino acid solutions are used parenterally to supply essential and non-essential amino acids for protein production in patients requiring nutritional support but unable to receive enteral support. They have also been used in the treatment of superficial necrolytic dermatitis in dogs.
Clinical Warning: The authorized veterinary preparation (Duphalyte) contains insufficient amino acids to meet basal requirements for protein production and is intended only as an aid for IV fluid support.
Species Specific Warning: None of the human formulations contain taurine, which is essential for cats and for specific conditions in dogs. All products are hyperosmolar.
Mechanism of action
Provides synthetic crystalline L-amino acids which act as building blocks for protein synthesis. → Supports protein anabolism → Arrests protein and muscle wasting → Maintains intermediary metabolism.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Dehydration
- Hepatic encephalopathy
- Severe azotaemia
- Shock
- Congestive heart failure
- Electrolyte imbalances
Adverse effects
- Hyperglycaemia
- Hyperlipidaemia
- Hypercapnia
- Acid-base disturbances
- Electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hypophosphataemia / refeeding syndrome)
- Catheter-associated thrombophlebitis
- Bacterial colonization of the catheter
- Bacteraemia and septicaemia
- Severe tissue damage (if extravasated)
Precautions
Administration Requirements: The use of concentrated amino acid solutions for parenteral nutrition support should not be undertaken without specific training. It requires central venous access and intensive care monitoring due to hyperosmolarity.
Dedicated Lines: Intravenous lines for parenteral nutrition should be dedicated for that use alone and not used for other medications.
Infusion Rates: As many available amino acid solutions contain potassium, the maximal acceptable rates of infusion will depend heavily on the potassium content of the preparation.
Nutritional Completeness: Prolonged treatment may require the addition of vitamins, trace elements, and essential electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphate).
Monitoring
- Blood glucose
- Serum electrolytes (potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium)
- Acid-base status
- Serum triglycerides/lipids
- Renal and hepatic parameters
- Catheter site for signs of thrombophlebitis or infection
- Body weight and hydration status
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Administered intravenously; 100% bioavailable.
Distribution
Distributed systemically to intracellular and extracellular fluid compartments for immediate use in protein synthesis.
Metabolism
Incorporated into structural and functional proteins. Excess amino acids undergo hepatic deamination.
Elimination
Nitrogenous waste from metabolized amino acids is converted to urea in the liver and excreted by the kidneys.
Overdose
Excessive administration rates can lead to severe metabolic complications, including hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, hypercapnia, and life-threatening electrolyte imbalances (such as hypophosphataemia associated with refeeding syndrome). Overdose of potassium-containing solutions may cause fatal hyperkalaemia.
Available products
Formulations
- Injectable solution
Veterinary
- Duphalyte (Note: insufficient for total basal protein requirements)
Human-labeled
- Aminoplasmal
- Aminoven
- Clinimix
- Glamin
- Hyperamine
- Intrafusin
- Kabiven Peripheral
- Nutriflex
Regulatory status
Duphalyte is authorized for veterinary use (POM-V).
Available as POM and POM-V.
No regulatory data for: 🇺🇸 US · 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store according to specific manufacturer guidelines. Generally kept at room temperature or refrigerated depending on the formulation. Protect from light and do not use if the solution is cloudy or contains precipitates.
Client information
Your pet is receiving intravenous (IV) nutrition because they are currently unable to eat or absorb food through their digestive tract. This special fluid provides the essential building blocks (amino acids) their body needs to heal and maintain muscle mass. The veterinary team will closely monitor your pet's blood values and the IV catheter site to ensure they are tolerating the nutrition well and to prevent any metabolic complications.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.