EFFECT OF ABRUPT DISCONTINUATION OF HIGH GLUCOSE-INFUSION RATES DURING PARENTERAL-NUTRITION

We measured serum glucose and insulin levels in 15 children older than 2 years of age for 30 minutes after abrupt discontinuation of total parenteral nutrition. Initially high insulin levels rapidly became normal, and glucose levels were stable after 15 minutes. No patient had biochemical or symptomatic hypoglycemia. Glucose infusion rate, age, or use of steroid therapy had no apparent influence. Abrupt discontinuation of total parenteral nutrition is safe in most children older than 2 years of age.