Anticatabolic properties of branched chain amino acids in trauma

The anticatabolic properties of branched chain amino acids enriched protein solutions in 22 patients with multiple trauma have been evaluated. Nitrogen balance, nitrogen output, the daily change of blood urea nitrogen, plasma albumin and total protein levels were recorded daily. Each 2 days free amino acids and 3-methyl histidine urinary concentrations were measured. The results obtained in the study suggest that in trauma patients high ratios of essential amino acids/total nitrogen are needed and that amino acid solutions enriched in branched chain amino acids are most effective in preventing muscle catabolism and promoting protein synthesis.