Omegaven Mechanism of Action

Pharmacotherapeutic Group: Emulsion for parenteral nutrition. ATC Code: B05BA.
Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: The long-chain omega-3 fatty acids in Omegaven are partly incorporated in plasma and tissue lipids. Docosahexaenoic acid is an important structural element in membrane phospholipids, while eicosapentaenoic acid is a precursor in the synthesis of a special class of eicosanoids (prostaglandins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes and other lipid mediators). Increased synthesis of these eicosapentaenoic acid-derived mediator substances may help promote antiaggregatory and anti-inflammatory effects, and is associated with immunomodulatory effects.
The glycerol contained in Omegaven is designed for use in energy production via glycolysis or is re-esterified together with free fatty acids in the liver to form triglycerides.
Omegaven also contains egg phospholipids, which are hydrolysed or incorporated into the cell membranes, where they are essential for the maintenance of membrane integrity.
Pharmacokinetics: The lipid particles infused with Omegaven are similar in size and elimination to physiological chylomicrons. In healthy male volunteers, a triglyceride half-life for Omegaven of 54 min has been calculated.