The metabolic response to glycerol during parenteral nutrition

The use of various nonprotein energy sources in parenteral nutrition regimens has been discussed for many years. Besides glucose, glycerol, xylitol, fructose and sorbitol are currently being used as water-soluble parenteral fuels. Despite the increasing frequency with which these glucose substitutes are being used, little information is available regarding the differences they evoke in host responses. All experimental evidence to date has shown glycerol to be equally effective in sparing body nitrogen as glucose when supplied in hypocaloric amounts. Results from studies in injured animals suggest that exogenously administered glycerol is a more potent inhibitor of fatty acid oxidation than glucose. Although results from human volunteers have been variable, glycerol administration after injury appears to markedly reduce fatty acid oxidation and ketogenesis, as well as increase hepatic glycogen. Glycerol toxicity appears to result only from its excessive administration, or when administered intraperitoneally or subcutaneously. Intravenous administration of hypocaloric quantities of glycerol alone or as a component of total parenteral nutrition is safe and effective.