title: Qualitative studies on alpha-interferon-2b in prolonged continuous infusion regimes using gradient elution high-performance liquid chromatography.
abstract: The treatment of home-based cancer patients with continuous infusion chemotherapy requires that complete courses of medication in pre-filled syringes are provided on an out-patient basis. The infusion must remain stable prior to use during refrigerated storage (up to 14 days) and during infusion from holster-worn ambulatory infusion pumps where the temperature of the infusion can reach 37 degrees C. In this study, polypropylene syringes containing interferon alpha-2b infusion (3 mega units in 6 ml) were stored at 4 degrees C. The infusion was analysed during storage by a qualitative gradient-elution high-performance liquid chromatography procedure. Over 14 days storage at 4 degrees C or 24 h storage at 37 degrees C, chromatographic changes occurred indicating interconversion between interferon monomers and possibly oligomer formation. Until further studies are completed we consider interferon alpha-2b unsuitable for inclusion in our home oncology programme.
authors.affiliation: Post-Graduate Medical School, University of Exeter, U.K.
authors.forename: A J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Palmer
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Sewell
authors.forename: C G
authors.initials: CG
authors.lastname: Rowland
mesh_terms: D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; D004355:Drug Stability; D006801:Humans; D007263:Infusions, Parenteral; D007370:Interferon Type I / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000032:analysis; D012034:Refrigeration; D013594:Syringes; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D007370:Interferon Type I