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Parenteral Nutrition Solution/Discontinued

AMINOSYN 10% (PH6)

AMINOSYN 10% (PH6)

Clinical safety rating

caution

Comprehensive clinical and safety monograph for AMINOSYN 10% (PH6) (AMINOSYN 10% (PH6)).


Mechanism of Action

Aminosyn 10% is a parenteral amino acid solution that provides essential and non-essential amino acids for protein synthesis, helping to maintain nitrogen balance and support tissue repair and growth in patients unable to receive adequate nutrition enterally.

What the body does with it

MetabolismAmino acids are metabolized through deamination, transamination, and decarboxylation pathways, primarily in the liver, with nitrogen converted to urea via the urea cycle and carbon skeletons entering the Krebs cycle.
ExcretionAmino acids from Aminosyn 10% are primarily utilized for protein synthesis and metabolic processes. Excess nitrogen is eliminated via the kidneys as urea (renal elimination accounts for >90% of nitrogen excretion). Minimal biliary/fecal elimination (<5%) occurs via unabsorbed amino acids in patients with malabsorption. In renal impairment, elimination is reduced.
Half-lifeThe terminal elimination half-life of individual amino acids varies (1–4 hours) depending on metabolic demand and renal function. For the amino acid mixture, the effective half-life is approximately 2 hours in patients with normal renal function. This short half-life necessitates continuous or frequent infusion to maintain stable plasma levels.
Protein bindingAmino acids exhibit low protein binding (<10%) to plasma proteins (primarily albumin). High-affinity binding is negligible; most amino acids circulate freely.
Volume of DistributionVolume of distribution (Vd) for amino acids in Aminosyn 10% ranges from 0.3–0.5 L/kg, approximating total body water. This reflects extensive distribution into extracellular and intracellular compartments.
BioavailabilityBioavailability is 100% when administered intravenously. Not applicable for oral, intramuscular, or other routes; Aminosyn 10% is for IV use only.
Onset of ActionFor intravenous infusion, the onset of clinical effect (protein synthesis, nitrogen balance improvement) occurs within 1–2 hours of initiation, but measurable metabolic effects (e.g., increased amino acid levels) appear within 15–30 minutes.
Duration of ActionDuration of action is proportional to infusion duration. After discontinuation, plasma amino acid levels decline to baseline within 4–6 hours. Metabolic effects (e.g., improved nitrogen balance) may persist for 12–24 hours due to ongoing protein synthesis.
Molecular Weight173

Classification & Brands

Dosing & administration

Intravenous infusion: 1 to 1.5 g/kg/day (equivalent to 10 to 15 mL/kg/day of 10% solution) for adult patients with normal nutritional status; adjust based on metabolic needs.

Dosage formINJECTABLE
Renal impairmentFor GFR 30-59 mL/min: reduce dose to 0.8-1.0 g/kg/day. For GFR 15-29 mL/min: 0.6-0.8 g/kg/day. For GFR <15 mL/min or dialysis: 0.5-0.6 g/kg/day; monitor for azotemia.
Liver impairmentChild-Pugh Class A: no adjustment. Child-Pugh Class B: reduce dose by 30-50% and use a formulation with higher branched-chain amino acids. Child-Pugh Class C: avoid or use with extreme caution, adjust based on ammonia levels.
Pediatric useInfants (0-1 year): 2-3 g/kg/day (20-30 mL/kg/day). Children (1-12 years): 1.5-2.5 g/kg/day (15-25 mL/kg/day). Adolescents: 1-1.5 g/kg/day (10-15 mL/kg/day). Administer as continuous IV infusion.
Geriatric useInitiate at lower end of dosing range (0.8-1 g/kg/day) due to reduced renal function and increased risk of fluid overload; monitor serum electrolytes and renal function closely.

Use during pregnancy

1st trimesterAminosin 10% (pH6) is indicated for parenteral nutrition during pregnancy when oral or enteral nutrition is inadequate. No known teratogenic effects.
2nd trimesterSafe for supplementation of essential amino acids during parenteral nutrition. Use only if clearly needed.
3rd trimesterMonitor maternal nutritional status and fetal growth; generally safe but avoid excess protein loads.

Clinical note

Comprehensive clinical and safety monograph for AMINOSYN 10% (PH6) (AMINOSYN 10% (PH6)).

Placental transferAmino acids cross the placenta via active transport; transfer is physiological and dose-dependent. No specific risk data for this formulation.
BreastfeedingExcretion into breast milk is minimal due to rapid metabolism and low molecular weight. Considered compatible with breastfeeding when used for essential nutritional support.
Lactation RatingL1 (Safe)
Teratogenic RiskAmino acids are essential nutrients; no teratogenic risk is known when used at recommended doses. However, safety during pregnancy has not been established through controlled studies. First trimester: No evidence of fetal harm. Second/third trimester: Use only if clearly needed; monitor maternal and fetal status.
Fetal MonitoringMonitor maternal electrolyte, acid-base balance, renal function (BUN, creatinine), liver enzymes, and serum ammonia. Fetal monitoring as clinically indicated.
Fertility EffectsNo known adverse effects on fertility. Amino acids are essential nutrients required for normal reproductive function.

Warnings & precautions

■ FDA Black Box Warning

None

Side Effect Profile

Serious Effects

Absolute Contraindications

Severe hepatic failureInborn errors of amino acid metabolism (e.g., maple syrup urine disease)Severe uremiaAnuria

Clinical Precautions

PrecautionsRisk of hyperammonemia, especially in patients with hepatic impairment, Risk of metabolic acidosis, Risk of fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances, Monitor for signs of infection or phlebitis at infusion site, Use with caution in patients with renal insufficiency as may worsen azotemia
Food/DietaryNo specific food interactions. However, since this is used in parenteral nutrition, oral intake may be contraindicated. Adjustments may be needed if transitioning to oral feeding.

Clinical Tips & Counseling

Clinical PearlsAminosyn 10% (pH 6) is a crystalline amino acid solution used for parenteral nutrition. Monitor serum electrolytes, BUN, and ammonia levels due to risk of metabolic abnormalities. Adjust infusion rate to avoid hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Use with caution in renal or hepatic impairment. Check for compatible additives and avoid mixing with lipids in the same container unless validated.
Patient AdviceReport any signs of infection at the IV site, such as redness, swelling, or pain. · Inform your healthcare provider if you experience nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. · This solution provides essential nutrients; do not stop treatment without consulting your doctor. · Keep an eye on your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes. · Do not take any other nutritional supplements without medical advice.

AMINOSYN 10% (PH6) Interactions

Loading safety data…

This overview is compiled from peer-reviewed clinical sources and FDA labeling. It's here to support — not replace — clinical judgment. Always verify dosing against your institution's current protocols before prescribing.

On this page

Mechanism of ActionDosing & administrationUse during pregnancyWarnings & precautionsDrug interactions

Compare with

AMINESS 5.2% ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS W/ HISTADINEAMINO ACIDSAMINOSOL 5%AMINOSYN 10%AMINOSYN 3.5%

External sources

DailyMed (NIH) PubMed OpenFDA