Intralipid treatment
Intralipid is a fat emulsion solution that is administered routinely by intravenous route. Intralipid consists of soybean oil, egg yolk phospholipids and glycerin. It may be recommended by your provider as part of your fertility treatment.
Why is Intralipid Used to Treat Infertility?
Research in both animals and humans has shown that Intralipid may enhance implantation and maintenance of pregnancy for patients with recurrent pregnancy loss or recurrent lack of implantation with IVF. It is possible that some types of infertility may be caused by a slightly overactive immune system. When this occurs, the immune system can attack the egg, sperm, embryo and even a developing fetus. This can result in difficulty achieving pregnancy, maintaining the pregnancy, or recurrent miscarriages. In women who have autoimmune issues, the natural killer (NK) cells can react abnormally to an implanting embryo, treating it as an invading cell and signaling for the body to attack it. Intralipids have been known to induce mild suppression of NK cell components of our immune system. Studies have found that Intralipid can help the embryo implant into the uterine wall and grow normally. Recent research has suggested that women who suffer from recurrent miscarriages or multiple failed IVF cycles may benefit from the use of Intralipid.
How is Intralipid Administered?
Intralipid emulsion is administered at The Woman’s Clinic by intravenous (IV) drip infusion. Intralipid infusion will only be administered after we receive an order from your IVF clinic. We will administer Intralipid infusion based on the recommended schedule provided to us by your ordering facility/clinic. You will be required to sign a consent form prior to the infusion.
What are the Risks of Intralipid Treatment?
Some patients may experience the following symptoms, yet very rare: fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, shortness of breath, or an allergic-type reaction. Allergic reaction is possible, particularly if you have an allergy to soy oil or egg yolk. There is always a risk for infection during any IV infusion, but clean techniques will be used to decrease this possibility. You should not receive Intralipid treatment if you have liver failure, renal disease, sensitivity or allergy to soy products or eggs, or any recent severe medical illness.