What is Osmolite 1.5 kcal feed?
Osmolite 1.5 kcal is a therapeutic, high-calorie, and high-protein nutritional formula manufactured by Abbott Nutrition. It is designed to provide complete, balanced nutrition for patients who cannot consume enough calories and nutrients orally, making it suitable for both supplemental and sole-source nutrition. As an enteral feeding formula, it is typically delivered directly to the stomach or small bowel via a feeding tube. The '1.5 kcal' in its name signifies its concentrated caloric density of 1.5 calories per milliliter, which is higher than standard 1.0 kcal formulas.
Nutritional Composition
Osmolite 1.5 is formulated to meet the dietary requirements of patients with elevated energy and protein needs. It is also suitable for those who are fluid-restricted or have limited volume tolerance. A typical 1000 mL serving provides 1500 calories, 62.7 grams of protein, and a complete profile of 25 essential vitamins and minerals. The formula contains a specialized fat blend that includes Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), which are easier to absorb for patients with lipid malabsorption issues. It is also fiber-free and low-residue, a key feature for patients who may not tolerate dietary fiber.
Who Can Benefit from Osmolite 1.5?
Osmolite 1.5 kcal feed is intended for use under medical supervision for a variety of patient populations. The concentrated calories and protein are particularly beneficial for individuals who need to gain or maintain a healthy weight.
Key patient groups include:
- Malnourished Patients: Individuals with or at risk of developing disease-related malnutrition.
- Critically Ill Patients: Hospitalized patients in intensive care units who require concentrated, easy-to-absorb nutrition.
- Post-Surgical Patients: Those recovering from surgery who have increased nutrient demands for healing.
- Patients with Limited Volume Tolerance: Individuals who cannot consume large volumes of formula due to a poor appetite or medical condition.
- Patients with Malabsorption: The inclusion of MCTs in the fat blend helps those with impaired lipid absorption.
Important Considerations and Potential Side Effects
As with any specialized medical food, Osmolite 1.5 kcal should only be used under the direction of a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or registered dietitian.
Here are some essential precautions:
- Not for IV Use: This formula is for enteral use only and should never be administered intravenously.
- Not for Galactosemia: It is not suitable for individuals with galactosemia, a rare genetic disorder.
- Potential Side Effects: While generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. A healthcare provider should be consulted if adverse effects occur.
- Preparation and Handling: Proper handling and hygiene are critical to prevent microbial contamination. Unopened containers should be stored at room temperature, and once opened, refrigerated and used within 48 hours.
Osmolite 1.5 vs. Other Enteral Formulas
Selecting the correct enteral nutrition formula depends on the patient's specific metabolic and dietary needs. Here is a comparison of Osmolite 1.5 with other common formula types:
| Feature | Osmolite 1.5 Cal | Standard 1.0 Cal Formula | Peptide-Based Formula | Fiber-Enriched Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caloric Density | 1.5 kcal/mL | 1.0 kcal/mL | 1.0–1.5 kcal/mL | 1.0–1.5 kcal/mL |
| Protein Source | Whole protein (casein, soy) | Whole protein | Hydrolyzed/Peptides | Whole protein |
| Fiber Content | Fiber-free, low-residue | Varies (often contains fiber) | Typically fiber-free | Contains fiber |
| Key Patient Need | High calorie/protein, limited volume, malabsorption | Standard nutritional needs | Malabsorption, GI intolerance | Bowel management |
| Fat Source | High-oleic safflower/canola, MCTs | Long-chain triglycerides | MCTs, structured lipids | Long-chain triglycerides |
| Primary Indication | Concentrated nutrition | General enteral feeding | Impaired GI function | Constipation, diarrhea |
Conclusion
Osmolite 1.5 kcal feed is a specialized, high-calorie, and high-protein enteral nutrition formula designed for patients who cannot meet their nutritional needs through oral intake alone. Its concentrated energy density, complete vitamin and mineral profile, and inclusion of MCTs make it an effective tool for promoting weight gain and recovery in patients with increased metabolic demands or limited fluid tolerance. However, its use should always be guided by a healthcare professional to ensure proper administration and monitoring, and to mitigate potential side effects. For more detailed product information, you can visit the Abbott Nutrition Official Product Page.
