The therapy consists of an intravenous infusion of a lipid emulsion (IVLE).
Example: Intralipid-20%
Mechanisms involved may include:
(1) lipid "sink" (absorption of fat-soluble drugs, reducing drug in the plasma aqueous phase)
(2) redistribution to organs where the drug can be metabolized and excreted
(3) increased tissue perfusion due to cardiotonic and vasoconstrictive effects
Drugs where used include:
(1) local anesthetic (bupivacaine, other)
(2) haloperidol
(3) tricyclic antidepressants
(4) lipophilic beta blockers
(5) calcium channel blockers
The therapy can interfere with laboratory testing based on water displacement in blood specimens.
