Lipid emulsion therapy is the intravenous infusion of a parental lipid formulation, which can be used in the management of some toxic substances, particularly fat-soluble (lipophilic) compounds. Although the mechanism is not fully understood, the lipid is thought to act as a ‘shuttle’, facilitating redistribution of the toxic compound. Adverse effects from the use of lipid emulsion in the management of poisoning appear to be rare. Lipid is straightforward to administer and a relatively inexpensive treatment option, and should be considered in an animal failing to respond to other therapies after exposure to a substance that fits the criteria for lipid emulsion treatment: high lipid solubility, high volume of distribution and short to moderate half-life.

Nicola Bates - Senior Information Scientist, Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), 2nd Floor, Godfree Court, 29-35 Long Lane, London SE1 4PL