Taurolidine Solution Research Articles

Use of 2% taurolidine lock solution for treatment and prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections in neonates: a feasibility study

Taurolidine lock, a technique used to prevent or treat catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), is effective in adult and paediatric patients but has been described rarely in neonates. The aim of this descriptive retrospective study, was to determine the feasibility and direct outcomes of prophylactic and therapeutic taurolidine locks in term and preterm neonates. We implemented the use of therapeutic taurolidine lock in addition to antibiotic treatment with the aim of catheter salvage in critical neonates with difficult vascular access (group 1). In addition, we introduced taurolidine lock as a preventive measure in neonates with a central venous catheter (CVC) at high risk of developing CRBSI (group 2). Every 24h (in the treatment group) a 2% taurolidine solution was injected and the catheter locked for at least 120min, until infection clearance (group 1). In the preventive group, the catheter was locked for 30min every 48h until CVC removal (group 2). Thirty-seven neonates who received taurolidine were included in this study. We did not observe any major adverse events. In group 1 (21 cases), clinical symptom disappearance and bacteraemia clearance were achieved without catheter removal in 18 cases (85.7%); in the other three neonates the catheter was removed shortly after the start of the locks as it was possible to replace the CVC. In group 2 (16 neonates), no CRBSI was observed during the duration of the catheter placement. In this retrospective study, taurolidine was successfully used in neonates both for prevention and treatment of CRBSI, without major undesired effects. A larger cohort and a randomized clinical trial is warranted in order to establish its efficacy and safety in neonates.

In vitro comparison of the effectiveness of various antimicrobial locks with taurolidine in the treatment and prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections in patients receiving parenteral nutrition

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effectiveness of various taurolidine solutions in the prevention and treatment of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) caused by the entire spectrum of microbes in patients receiving parenteral nutrition in a shorter period of time. MethodsThe in vitro method was used to test for eradication of biofilm. Different locks were used: TauroSept (2%), TauroLock (1.35%), TauroLock half concentration, and 3.5% taurolidine and tested on Staphylococcus (S.) epidermidis, S. aureus, S. hominis, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas (P.) aeruginosa (PSAE), multidrug‐resistant P. aeruginosa (MR PSAE), vancomycin-resistant enterococci, Klebsiella pneumoniae producing carbapenemase (KPC), Klebsiella pneumoniae producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (KLPN ESBL), Candida (C.) albicans, and C. glabrata. Broviac catheters were incubated for growth of each organism and then incubated in lock solutions. Colony forming units (CFUs) were then counted after 30 min, 60 min, and 120 min of incubation. ResultsA statistically significant decrease in CFUs was observed after 30 min of taurolidine exposure for S. hominis, PSAE, KLPN ESBL, KLPN KPC, C. albicans, and C. glabrata; after 60 min of exposure for S. epidermidis, PSAE, MR PSAE, KLPN ESBL, KPC, C. albicans, and C. glabrata; and after 120 min of exposure for S. epidermidis, S. hominis, S. aureus, PSAE, MR PSAE, KLPN ESBL, KPC, C. albicans, C. glabrata. ConclusionsThe application of taurolidine is effective in the treatment of CRBSIs. Taurolidine proved to be more effective against Gram-negative microorganisms during a 30-min exposure. Using 0.675% taurolidine is still effective. To achieve the required antimicrobial effect, the catheter must be sanitized for at least 2 h.

The effect of intraoperative immersion solutions on acellular dermal matrix: Biofilm formation and mechanical property

Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is generally used on implant-based breast operations; However, it can increase surgical site infection. Many immersion solutions are applied to ADM, however, the most effective solution is unknown. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of different solutions on the biofilm formation and mechanical properties of ADM. Aseptic porcine-derived ADMs were immersed in 5 different solutions for 30min; sterile normal saline, 10% povidone-iodine, 0.5% chlorhexidine, antibiotics (cefazolin, gentamicin, and vancomycin), and taurolidine. They are transferred to 10ml suspension of methicillin-sensitive/resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA/MRSA) or Staphylococcus epidermidis and an overnight culture was performed. After rinsing and sonication to obtain the biofilm on ADM, colony forming unit (CFU) was measured. In addition, the maximum load before ADM deformation and the elongation length of ADM at the start of the maximum load was determined. Regardless of strains, povidone-iodine, chlorhexidine, and taurolidine group had lower CFUs than the saline group with statistical significance. Meanwhile, the antibiotics group did not show statistical difference from the saline group. Moreover, only taurolidine group showed higher tensile strength (MRSA, p=0.0003; S. epidermidis, p=0.0023) and elongation length (MSSA, p=0.0015) than the saline group. The antibiotics and chlorhexidine group yielded lower tensile strength and elongation length than the povidone-iodine and taurolidine groups. It was suggested that the 10% povidone-iodine or taurolidine solution is effective. In contrast, the antibiotics solution could be considered as an effective intraoperative solution.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy of taurolidine in reducing catheter-related bloodstream infections for patients receiving parenteral nutrition.

BackgroundParenteral nutrition administered via central venous catheter is an established treatment option for people with intestinal failure. A serious complication of central venous catheters is the high risk of catheter‐related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). Catheter‐locking solutions are one strategy for CRBSI prevention, with the solution taurolidine showing beneficial effects. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to identify and synthesize evidence to assess taurolidine efficacy against comparators for the prevention of CRBSI for people with intestinal failure receiving parenteral nutrition.MethodsSix health literature databases were searched for efficacy data of rate of CRBSI for taurolidine vs control among our study population; no study design limits were applied. Individual study data were presented for the number of CRBSIs and catheter days, and rate ratio. Overall data were synthesized as a pooled risk ratio, with subgroup analyses by study design, control type, and taurolidine solution.ResultsThirty‐four studies were included in the final analysis. At the individual level, all studies showed superior efficacy of taurolidine vs control for prevention of CRBSIs. When the data were synthesized, the pooled risk ratio was 0.49 (95% CI, 0.46–0.53; P ≤ 0.0001), indicating a 51% decreased risk of CRBSI through the use of taurolidine. Subgroup analysis showed no difference depending on study design (P = 0.23) or control type (P = 0.37) and a significant difference for taurolidine type (P = 0.0005).ConclusionTaurolidine showed superior efficacy over controls regardless of study design or comparator group. The results show that taurolidine provides effective CRBSI reduction for people with intestinal failure receiving parenteral nutrition.

A 2% taurolidine catheter lock solution prevents catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) and catheter dysfunction in hemodialysis patients.

2% taurolidine catheter lock solution without additives is safe and efficient. CRBSI and dysfunction rates compare favorably against other studies in hemodialysis. In hemodialysis patients, catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) and catheter dysfunction are common and cause significant morbidity, mortality, and costs. Catheter lock solutions reduce CRBSI and catheter dysfunction rates, but solutions containing heparin, citrate, or antibiotics are associated with adverse effects. Due to its antimicrobial and antithrombotic properties and benign safety profile, taurolidine is suitable for use in catheter lock solutions. In this study the effectiveness and safety of a catheter lock solution containing 2% taurolidine without citrate or heparin (TauroSept®, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) in hemodialysis patients were investigated for the first time. Data from 21 patients receiving chronic hemodialysis via tunneled central venous catheters with 2% taurolidine solution as a catheter lock were analyzed in a single-center retrospective study and compared with the existing literature in a review. The primary endpoint was CRBSI rate. Secondary endpoints included catheter dysfunction, treatment, and costs; catheter technical problems, resolution, and costs; and adverse events. Data were compared to outcomes with standard lock solutions in the literature. No CRBSIs occurred during the observation period of 5,639 catheter days. The catheter dysfunction rate was 0.71 per 1,000 catheter days, and the catheter dysfunction treatment costs were CHF (Swiss Franc) 543 per patient. No technical problems or adverse events related to the use of 2% taurolidine-containing catheter lock solution were observed. These results compare favorably with other catheter lock solutions. A solution containing 2% taurolidine seems suitable as a hemodialysis catheter lock. In a Swiss cohort, it prevented CRBSI, limited catheter dysfunction, and was cost-efficient.

Taurolidine and congeners activate hTRPA1 but not hTRPV1 channels and stimulate CGRP release from mouse tracheal sensory nerves.

Taurolidine has long been in clinical use as an antimicrobial irrigation that does not impede wound healing. It can even be administered intravenously (30 g/day) to treat sepsis or to exert newly recognized antineoplastic actions. Only one irritant effect is reported, that is, to temporarily induce burning pain of unknown origin when applied to body cavities or peripheral veins. The structure of the molecule suggested the chemoreceptor channel TRPA1 as a potential target, which was verified measuring stimulated CGRP release from sensory nerves of the isolated mouse trachea and calcium influx in hTRPA1‐transfected HEK293 cells. With both methods, the concentration–response relationship of taurolidine exceeded the threshold value below 500 μmol/L and 100 μmol/L, respectively, and reached saturation at 1 mmol/L. The clinical 2% taurolidine solution did not evoke greater or longer lasting responses. The reversible tracheal response was abolished in TRPA1−/− but retained in TRPV1−/− mice. Consistently, hTRPV1‐HEK showed no calcium influx as a response, likewise native HEK293 cells and hTRPA1‐HEK deprived of extracellular calcium did not respond to taurolidine 1 mmol/L. The metabolite taurultam and its oxathiazine derivative, expected to cause less burning pain, showed weak tracheal irritancy only at 10 mmol/L, acting also through hTRPA1 but not hTRPV1. In conclusion, taurolidine, its metabolite, and a novel derivative showed no unspecific cellular effects but selectively, concentration‐dependently and reversibly activated the irritant receptor TRPA1 in CGRP‐expressing, thus nociceptive, neurons. The clinical solution of 2% taurolidine (~70 mmol/L) can, thus, rightly be expected to cause transient burning pain and neurogenic inflammation.

Comparison of ML8-X10 (a prototype oil-in-water micro-emulsion based on a novel free fatty acid), taurolidine/citrate/heparin and vancomycin/heparin antimicrobial lock solutions in the eradication of biofilm-producing staphylococci from central venous catheters.

Antimicrobial lock solutions are used for prevention and management of catheter-related bloodstream infections. ML8-X10 (a prototype oil-in-water micro-emulsion based on a novel free fatty acid), vancomycin/heparin and taurolidine/citrate/heparin (Taurolock™-Hep500) lock solutions were tested against biofilm-forming Staphylococcus epidermidis and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus. MICs were tested in neutral broth (pH ~7) and acidified broth (pH 5). In an established in vitro central venous catheter (CVC) lock model, solutions were introduced after 24 h of bacterial growth in a CVC incubated at 37°C. After an additional 8, 24 or 72 h of incubation, saline flush and cut catheter segments were processed for bacterial quantification. The cfu/mL at 0 h was subtracted from cfu/mL at the different timepoints. The activities of ML8-X10 and taurolidine solutions were enhanced at lower pH (P < 0.05). Against S. epidermidis, ML8-X10 solution demonstrated less activity than taurolidine at 8 h (P < 0.001), but was not significantly different from vancomycin. At 24 h, ML8-X10 solution demonstrated significantly less activity than taurolidine (P < 0.001), but was significantly more active than vancomycin (P < 0.001). Against S. aureus, ML8-X10 solution was less active than taurolidine at 8 and 24 h (P < 0.001 for both), but was similar to vancomycin. At 72 h, all lock solutions reduced colony counts to levels that approached or reached the limit of detection against both strains. In our in vitro catheter lock model, the novel free fatty acid emulsion demonstrated activity against biofilm-forming staphylococci similar to or greater than that of vancomycin lock solution. Taurolidine was the most active lock solution at 8 and 24 h, with all lock solutions tested demonstrating high activity at 72 h.

Central venous catheters and catheter locks in children with cancer: A prospective randomized trial of taurolidine versus heparin

To determine if the catheter lock taurolidine can reduce the number of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) in pediatric cancer patients with tunneled central venous catheters (CVC). During a study period of 34 months, 129 newly placed tunneled CVCs in 112 patients were randomly assigned to standard lock with heparin solution or experimental lock with a taurolidine solution (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT00735813). Sixty-five CVCs were included in the standard group and 64 CVCs in the experimental group. The groups were comparable regarding patients' characteristics. A total number of 72 bloodstream infections of which 33 were CRBSIs were observed during 39,127 CVC-days. A lower rate of CRBSI (0.4 per 1,000 CVC-days) was observed in the experimental arm compared with the standard arm (1.4 per 1,000 CVC-days, incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 0.26; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.09-0.61; P = 0.001). A lower rate of total bloodstream infections (1.2 per 1,000 CVC-days) was also observed in the experimental arm compared with the standard arm (2.5 per 1,000 CVC-days, IRR = 0.49; 95% CI 0.29-0.82; P = 0.004). Median interval from catheter insertion until first CRBSI was significantly lower in the standard group (156 days, range 12-602) compared with the experimental group (300 days, range 12-1,176; P = 0.02). Premature removal of the CVC due to infection and overall CVC survival were similar in the two study groups. Locking of long-term tunneled CVC with taurolidine significantly reduces catheter-related bloodstream infections in children with cancer.

Taurolidine: A New Alternative Agent for the Management of the Postoperative Air Leak

To evaluate the efficacy of taurolidine instillation on postoperative air leak by clinical study and to investigate the mechanism of action by animal experiments. Outcomes of taurolidine instillation in patients with postoperative air leak were retrospectively reviewed. 100 ml of 1% taurolidine solution was instilled through a chest tube in patients with postoperative air leak lasting 4days or more. Success was defined as cessation of air leak within 24 hours with full expansion of lung on chest radiograph and subsequent removal of chest tube within another 24 hours. The effect of taurolidine instillation was estimated by development of adhesion and thickening of the visceral pleura in rabbits. The study group was compared with a control group and a talc poudrage group. Out of 75 patients, the success rate was 66.7%. Out of 96 total attempts, taurolidine instillation was successful in 55%. In animal experiments, pleural adhesion was minimal in the taurolidine and control groups, whereas the talc group showed more adhesions. The taurolidine group showed a moderate visceral pleural thickening. The talc group showed severe visceral pleural thickening, whereas the control group showed mild thickening. Taurolidine is an effective alternative agent for the management of air leak. A chemical sclerosing effect is suggested as the mechanism of air leak cessation.

Sustained anti-adherence activity of taurolidine (Taurolin) and noxythiolin (Noxyflex S) solutions.

Taurolidine (2% w/v) and noxythiolin (1% w/v and 2.5% w/v) solutions inhibit the adherence in-vitro of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus to human epithelial and fibroblast cells. This effect, demonstrable after 30 min exposure of cells to test drugs, persists after removal of the active compound. Significantly reduced adherence of bacteria is apparent for 5 h after taurolidine treatment and for 6 h after treatment with 2.5% noxythiolin. Anti-adherence activity of taurolidine and noxythiolin may contribute to the observed clinical efficacy of these agents.

An Evaluation of Normal Saline and Taurolidine on Intra-Abdominal Adhesion Formation and Peritoneal Fibrinolysis

Intraoperative lavage with normal saline or taurolidine solutions is commonly used in abdominal surgery. For this purpose, normal saline and taurolidine, which may modify the intrinsic fibrinolytic activity of the peritoneum by breaking the peritoneal adhesions, are frequently used. We aimed to evaluate how normal saline and taurolidine affect peritoneal fibrinolysis and adhesion formation. A rat model of peritoneal adhesion was used. Control animals received no medication, while normal saline or taurolidine solutions were administered intraperitoneally to the remaining two groups (n = 20 for each group). At postoperative day 10 adhesions were graded, and cardinal parameters of peritoneal fibrinolysis (activities and concentrations of tissue plasminogen activator [tPA], plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 [PAI-1], and tPA/PAI-1 complex), and hydroxyproline contents were determined in peritoneal tissue samples. Total adhesion scores were decreased in both of the treated groups. Median tissue levels of tPA and tPA activity were higher in the treated groups versus controls. The PAI-1 levels were similar among the three groups. tPA/PAI-1 complex levels were higher in animals that received normal saline and in those treated with taurolidine solution compared with control animals. Peritoneal hydroxyproline levels were similar across the three groups. Our results suggest that normal saline and taurolidine solution administrations might reduce peritoneal adhesion formation, probably by altering peritoneal fibrinolytic activity.

Catheter lock solutions: it's time for a change

In recent years, the number of patients on hemodialysis (HD) with central vascular catheters (CVCs) has grown. However, CVC use is often associated with an important risk for catheter related bloodstream infections (CR-BI) and inadequate dialysis due to flow problems. In this study, we reviewed alternative solutions to heparin for locking HD CVCs. Several experiences have demonstrated that trisodium citrate (TSC) (30-47%), citrate (4%) and taurolidine (1.35%) solutions are effective and safe for the prevention of CRBI, while heparin stimulates biofilm formation. High citrate (47%) concentrations can also provide significant advantages in reducing catheter clotting, but controlled studies with larger populations are necessary to confirm and to extend the use of such solutions in clinical practice. Side effects with high sodium citrate concentrations have been reported only immediately after locking, the symptoms are probably caused by a temporary drop in ionized calcium and magnesium, but it is evident that these solutions should only be used by skilled and authorized personnel, with a rigorous protocol.

Effect of Peritoneal Lavage with Taurolidine on Primary Colonic Anastomosis in a Rat Model of Secondary Peritonitis

The reported antibacterial, antiendotoxic, and antiadhesive effects of taurolidine prompted us to study the benefits of intraperitoneal lavage with taurolidine on primary colonic anastomosis in a rat model of secondary peritonitis. We induced peritonitis in 40 rats by injecting Escherichia coli isolate intraperitoneally. We performed colonic resection and primary anastomosis 5 h later, after lavage with either taurolidine or saline solution. After the rats were killed, on postoperative day (POD) 3 (n = 10) or 7 (n = 10), we measured the bursting pressures and hydroxyproline levels, then examined the resected specimens histologically. Bursting pressures and tissue hydroxyproline levels were significantly higher in the taurolidine group than in the control group on PODs 3 and 7 (P < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed significantly higher fibroblastic activity in the taurolidine group. The higher bursting pressures and tissue hydroxyproline levels in the rats given taurolidine showed the positive effect of taurolidine on anastomotic strength in secondary peritonitis. Taurolidine is a novel antibiotic with both antibacterial and antiendotoxic effects. Intraperitoneal lavage with taurolidine solution may reduce the risks associated with performing primary colonic anastomosis in patients with secondary peritonitis.

Taurolidine is effective in the treatment of central venous catheter-related bloodstream infections in cancer patients

Taurolidine is an antimicrobial agent that was originally used in the local treatment of peritonitis and was shown to be effective in the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CR-BSI). In this pilot study, we used taurolidine solution as an intravenous (i.v.) lock into the totally implantable intravascular devices of 11 consecutive oncological patients with catheter-related bloodstream infections not responding to systemic antimicrobial chemotherapy. All patients recovered completely from the infection. No adverse drug effects were seen. Three patients were successfully retreated for a recurrent infection. Our data suggest a beneficial role of taurolidine i.v. lock for the therapy of catheter-related bloodstream infections in oncological patients. Taurolidine i.v. lock application is feasible and could especially be useful in infections resistant to antibiotic chemotherapy.

Effect of taurolidine on the normal eyelid and conjunctival flora

Purpose. The effectiveness of the topical taurolidine was evaluated in eradicating or reducing microorganisms in the normal flora of human eyes in a randomized controlled study and analyzed also the irritating effects of taurolidine on the ocular surface. Methods. One hundred and twenty eyes of 110 patients awaiting cataract surgery were randomly divided into four groups consisting of 30 eyes each. The first group received 0.05% taurolidine, the second received 0.3% gentamicin, the third received vehicle eyedrops and the fourth received saline to the preoperative eye four times daily for two days. Cultures were obtained from the eyelids and conjunctivas of all subjects prior to the therapy and again at the end of 48 hours. Micro-biological identification and colony counts were performed by standard laboratory methods, and the results were compared. The patients were clinically evaluated for symptoms and signs at the end of therapies. Results. Taurolidine and gentamicin produced a significant decrease from the basal bacteriological state: the number of colonies (p < 0.01 for taurolidine, p < 0.01 for gentamicin) was reduced by both agents. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most common microorganism isolated before therapy, and the number of its colonies was significantly reduced in taurolidine-treated (p < 0.001) and gentamicin-treated (p < 0.01) subjects. There was no significant difference in terms of the irritating effects for all therapies tested (p > 0.05). Conclusions. Taurolidine solution with its unique properties is an effective antimicrobial agent for reducing the number of bacteria in the flora of the eye. Taurolidine appears to be well tolerated and offers promise as a potential new antimicrobial drug.

Factors influencing the activity of taurolidine against spores of Bacillus subtilis (NCTC 10073)

The cidal activities of aqueous taurolidine (2.0%, w/v containing 5.0% w/v polyvinylpyrrolidone as a solubilising agent) and alcoholic taurolidine (2.05 w/v dissolved in Isopropyl alcohol 50% v/v) against spores of Bacillus subtilis NCTC 10073 were evaluated at 20°C, 37°C, 45°C and 55°C. Increased temperature increased both the rate and extent of sporicidal activity of both solutions. Total spore kill was not observed in either solution type over the range of temperatures and contact times examined. There were no observed differences between the sporicidal activities of aqueous and alcoholic taurolidine solutions at all temperatures examined. Ultrasonic energy (50 Hz operating frequency in a 150 W ultrasonic bath in conjunction with increasing temperature allowed to rise naturally from ambient temperature to 41°C over 4 h) enhanced the sporicidal activities of both solution types. However, the difference in activity between the two solution types was not significant. Compared to normal spores, alteration of spore coat layers (hydrogen-form spores) did not alter spore susceptibility to aqueous taurolidine at elevated temperatures of 37°C and 55°C.

Comparison of the growth inhibitory and bacteriocidal effects of taurolidine and taurultam on a clinical isolate of Escherichia coli

To investigate the mode of action of Taurolin, an antimicrobial preparation, the growth inhibitory and bacteriocidal effects of taurolidine and taurultam solutions on Escherichia coli isolated from a diagnosed urinary tract infection were examined at 37°C. The inhibitory effects of taurolidine solutions were observed to be greater than those of taurultam solutions at comparative concentrations; however, the presence of sublethal concentrations of formaldehyde (methylene glycol) associated with taurolidine was sufficient to account for this. The bacteriocidal activity of taurolidine (2.0% w/v) was greater than that of taurultam (4.5% w/v). Both compounds produced biphasic death rates with dissimilar initial slopes, suggested to be due to the presence of formaldehyde in taurolidine solutions. These observations indicate that the growth inhibitory and bacteriocidal effects of Taurolin solutions are primarily due to taurultam, however, the presence of sublethal concentrations of formaldehyde is significant in the expression of this activity.

Polarographic analysis of taurolidine, a non-antibiotic antimicrobial agent

The behaviour in aqueous solution of the non-antibiotic antimicrobial agent, taurolidine, which has marked anti-adherence properties, has been investigated by differential pulse polarography (DPP). Taurolidine gave well-defined differential pulse polarograms at pH 4.2 with a peak potential of −0.83 V vs Ag/AgCl. This behaviour was identical to that of aqueous taurultam solutions. Comparison of peak current ratios, cyclic voltammograms and peak potential/pH plots confirmed that the taurolidine signal was due to the reduction of taurultam and its hydroxymethyl derivative. A mechanism for the cathodic reduction of taurultam was proposed involving a 2-electron transfer. The signal at −0.83 V was of analytical utility, but was lost at alkaline pH. A second peak appeared in the polarogram for taurolidine solutions at alkaline pH and was identified as formaldehyde. This was quantified by a rapid DPP method. Only trace amounts of formaldehyde were found in commercial taurolidine (Taurolin) solutions and these were of no clinical significance.

NMR Studies and GC Analysis of the Antibacterial Agent Taurolidine

The NMR spectrum of taurolidine in deuterium oxide was compared with spectra obtained from model experiments with amines and formaldehyde. Head-space analysis combined with capillary GC showed that there was <0.004% free formaldehyde present in 2% solutions of taurolidine. This value is comparable to the concentration of formaldehyde found when the taurolidine solutions were injected directly onto GC columns.

Structural investigation of a new organic antiseptic: Taurolidine

In order to aid clinical investigations of metabolism and to study the antiseptic action of Taurolin® , analysis of Taurolidine solutions by Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry and Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectrometry was performed. It was found that the active species is methylol-Taurultam, which was observed as N-amino methyl N-methylol taurine, after ring opening due to high temperatures used in GC analysis. To minimize such uncontrolled thermal decompositions during biological fluid analysis, High Performance Liquid Chromatography was used. Clinical results obtained by this method in human patients are presented.