Triheptanoin
Triheptanoin is a medium-chain triglyceride designed to provide an alternative energy source for patients with long-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders (FAODs). It consists of three 7-carbon fatty acids (heptanoate) that can be metabolized independently of the defective enzymes in long-chain FAOD, helping to prevent metabolic crises and energy deficiency.
Triheptanoin is a medical food that provides alternative energy by bypassing defective long-chain fatty acid oxidation enzymes in patients with FAODs.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A16AX17
- RxNorm
- 1313234
- Generic
- Triheptanoin
- Class
- atc-a16
- Brands
- Dojolvi
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Triheptanoin is used as a source of calories and fatty acids for patients with long-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders (FAODs), including carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) deficiency, very long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (VLCAD) deficiency, and other conditions where long-chain fat metabolism is impaired.
Triheptanoin contains three odd-chain 7-carbon fatty acids (heptanoate) that can be converted to energy through pathways independent of the defective long-chain fatty acid oxidation enzymes. This allows it to bypass the metabolic block and provide necessary calories and substrates for energy production.
Triheptanoin is typically used as part of a comprehensive management plan including dietary modifications. It should be used under medical supervision with regular monitoring. Side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms. Not a substitute for emergency protocols during metabolic crises.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy