Examination of stability and compatibility of flucloxacillin (Floxapen®) and ceftazidime (Fortum®) in two infusion media: relevance for the clinical praxis

Abstract

Flucloxacillin (Floxapen) and ceftazidime (Ceftazidim) are both highly active antibiotics against Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms, respectively. Because of their complementary spectra of activity, simultaneous administration of both drugs via continuous infusion is highly favored by clinicians. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the stability and compatibility of both drugs in Aqua ad injections and in physiological solution of sodium chloride in the presence and absence of furosemide (Lasix). Physical and chemical stability were examined using different concentrations of flucloxacillin (2-12 g/50 ml) and ceftazidime (2-9 g/50 ml). On the basis of a limit of max. 10% degradation, flucloxacillin and ceftazidime can be considered stable at 4 degrees C and room temperature for up to 24 hours. Neither concentration nor infusion medium had significant influence on the degradation of both compounds. Addition of furosemide (250 mg/50 ml) does not cause any incompatibilities or significant decrease of the antimicrobial drug concentrations.