SMOFlipid

SMOFlipid is a sterile, intravenous lipid emulsion used as a source of calories and essential fatty acids for patients requiring parenteral nutrition who cannot eat or drink. It contains four types of fats—soybean oil, medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), olive oil, and fish oil—providing a well-balanced mixture of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The mechanism of action involves supplying biologically utilizable triglycerides that are hydrolyzed to free fatty acids by lipoprotein lipase; these serve as substrates for energy production via beta oxidation, support membrane structure and function, act as precursors for bioactive molecules (such as prostaglandins), and regulate gene expression. SMOFlipid is indicated in both adults and children (including preterm infants) on total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Clinical evidence suggests it may have additional benefits such as positive immunomodulatory effects, improved liver function due to low phytosterol content and high vitamin E levels, reduced hospital stays, fewer infections compared to other lipid emulsions, and better physiological similarity to human dietary fat intake[1][3][6][8].

Brand names

SMOFlipid

Other names

lipid injectable emulsion