Medium chain triglycerides

Generic name: medium chain triglycerides [ MEE-dee-um-CHAIN-trye-GLIS-er-ides ]
Brand names: MCT, Liquigen
Dosage form: oral oil (100%)
Drug class: Oral nutritional supplements

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 4, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is medium chain triglycerides?

Medium chain triglycerides is a medical food derived from fatty acids and safflower oil, a polyunsaturated fat.

Medium chain triglycerides is for dietary use in people whose bodies cannot digest certain foods properly. This includes people who are gluten or lactose intolerant, or who have unintended weight loss or need increased calories for other medical reasons.

Medium chain triglycerides does not contain protein or carbohydrates.

Medium chain triglycerides may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Medium chain triglycerides side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use medium chain triglycerides if you have ever had an allergic reaction to medium chain triglycerides.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this product if you have any type of severe liver problems such as:

• cirrhosis or other liver disease;

• high blood pressure inside the liver;

• brain or nervous system complications caused by severe liver damage; or

• if you have had a "portacaval shunt" placed in your body.

How should I take medium chain triglycerides?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Medium chain triglycerides may be mixed with fruit juice, used on salad or vegetables, used in cooking or baking, or otherwise blended in with sauces or other foods.

Shake the liquid well just before each use of this product.

Store medium chain triglycerides at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Medium chain triglycerides dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Dietary Supplement:

15 mL orally 3 to 4 times per day. Oil should be mixed with fruit juices, used on salads and vegetables, incorporated into sauces for use on fish, chicken, or lean meat, or used in cooking or baking.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since this product is used when needed, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of medium chain triglycerides is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while taking medium chain triglycerides?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect medium chain triglycerides?

Other drugs may interact with medium chain triglycerides, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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