[Compatibility problems in intensive care medicine].

OBJECTIVE: This review outlines the risk of incompatibility reactions due to the simultaneous administration of total parenteral nutrition together with a variety of different drugs. DATA SOURCES: The actual medical literature and results from own studies where used.
RESULTS: Besides well-known reactions between the different electrolytes, the different pH and pka value leads to incompatibility with side effects and loss of drug effectiveness. Apart from restrictive medication, the use of a multi-lumen catheter and the use of PC programs may help to avoid these reactions.
CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of incompatibility reactions in parenteral nutrition and infusion therapy is mandatory to avoid negative side effects.