Leaching of diethylhexyl phthalate from PVC bags into intravenous teniposide solution

Abstract

The stability of teniposide in various diluents and polyvinyl chloride bags was determined, and the extent of leaching of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) from PVC bags caused by the teniposide formulation was measured. No significant drug loss was observed during simulated infusions ( n = 4) for 1 h using PVC infusion bags and administration sets. No significant difference was found between infusion solutions (5% glucose or 0.9% Nacl). To minimize patient exposure to DEHP, teniposide solutions may be stored in a glass or polyolefin container and delivered through polyethylene-lined i.v. administration sets. If PVC bags are used for preparing teniposide solutions, the injections must be used immediately after preparation or stored 4–5 h at + 4°C.