Parenteral essential amino acids in acute renal failure

Parenteral 1.75 per cent L-essential amino acids in 47 per cent dextrose (Group I 11 patients) or 47 per cent dextrose (Group II, 9 patients) were administered to patients with severe acute renal failure in a single blind-controlled study. Survival rates (55 per cent in Group I and 56 per cent in Group II) and duration of renal failure were similar in the two groups. Rate of daily rise in blood urea nitrogen was significantly reduced during intravenous nutrition in Group I but not in Group II. Serious complications of intravenous nutrition did not occur. Since improved nitrogen metabolism is demonstrated, further trials of essential amino acid therapy in acute renal failure are indicated.