[Improvement in nitrogen sparing by branched amino acids during parenteral nutrition]

Two groups of ten patients each, staying in a Intensive Care Unit, received exclusive parenteral alimentation with different concentrations of branched chain amino acids (BCAA). Group A received studied solution containing 12 g N (852 mmol) with 41,1 p. 100 BCAA. Group B received control solution containing 18 g N (1278 mmol) with 21,1 p. 100 BCAA. Every patient received 60 nonprotein Kcal x kg-1 body weight/24 hr. The study was performed on five days. Measured parameters were: daily (D0 to D5) N balance, blood urea N and total protein and urinary alpha amine N, and after therapy (D6) amino acid levels. Results have shown no statistical significant difference between both groups. N balance became less negative during the therapy. Amino acid levels were in the normal range and alpha amine urinary elimination remained low in patients with parenteral nutrition. These results indicate that 12 g (852 mmol) N in BCAA rich solution are as efficient as 18 g (1278 mmol) N in standard solution, allowing a N sparing.