The exact mechanism by which intralipid therapy exerts its effects in toxicology is not completely understood. Several hypotheses exist, the most prominent being the "lipid sink" theory. This theory suggests that the fat emulsion creates a lipid phase in the blood, which sequesters lipophilic drugs away from their target sites, thereby reducing their toxicity. Other proposed mechanisms include modulation of mitochondrial function and direct inotropic effects on the heart.
