Role of histamine (H2)-receptor antagonists in total parenteral nutrition patients.

Hospitalized patients, especially those who are critically ill, are often at risk for malnutrition and may require nutritional support. Although the enteral approach is generally preferred when providing nutritional support, parenteral nutrition is frequently required. These patients are also likely to receive therapeutic or prophylactic parenteral histamine (H2)-receptor antagonists. Patients receiving both total parenteral nutrition and parenteral H2-receptor antagonists may benefit from receiving the drug in combination with the total parenteral nutrition admixture. Parenteral cimetidine and ranitidine are stable in various total parenteral nutrition fluids. Clinically, cimetidine has been studied more extensively than ranitidine. Clinical benefits and cost savings may be realized from this method of drug delivery.