Effect of Storage Temperature on the Stability of Total Parenteral Nutrition Admixtures Prepared for Infants.

Physical, chemical and microbiological stability of total parenteral nutrient (TPN) admixtures was studied as a function of storage time and temperature. Particle size analysis and zeta potential measurements were carried out to evaluate the possible changes in the kinetic stability of the emulsions as a function of storage time and temperature. The concentration changes of the applied additives, those of the ascorbic acid and L-alanyl-L-glutamine, were also determined under different storage conditions. Our results indicate that there were no significant differences in the particle size and zeta potential values of admixtures stored at the three examined temperatures. The best results were obtained in the case of admixtures stored at 30°C temperature. Rapid decomposition of vitamin C was found while the glutamine showed adequate stability as a function of storage time and temperature. According to the results of the physicochemical examinations 10-day storage period of this type of TPN admixtures can be accepted at room temperature. Their storage does not require refrigeration (2-8°C) thus they can be administered without special preheating ensuring better physiological tolerance. Ascorbic acid can be added to the system preceding the administration to the patient because of its rapid decomposition.