Stability and compatibility of histamine H2-receptor antagonists in parenteral nutrition mixtures.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the stability and compatibility of histamine H2-receptor antagonists in parenteral nutrition admixtures in order to provide well tolerated and effective therapy.


RESULTS
Many stability investigations were carried out before 2005, but no critical appraisal of published data has been undertaken. H2-receptor antagonists are stable in most parenteral nutrition admixtures for 2-48 h, with long-term stability up to 4 weeks claimed for a few combinations. Some earlier data are questionable in the light of more recent analytical technology and pharmaceutical knowledge regarding stability assessment. As stability is dependent upon the source of constituents, we have listed all products tested and their respective manufacturers. A general recommendation is made not to store H2-receptor antagonists in parenteral nutrition for more than 24 h at refrigerated temperature before use.


CONCLUSIONS
Administration of H2-receptor antagonists in parenteral nutrition admixtures has several clinical and economical advantages, but, in order for these benefits to be well tolerated and efficacious, the stability and compatibility of the drugs, as well as the parenteral nutrition components after mixing, have to be ascertained. Factors that influence stability are assessed, the need for more controlled study protocols is evaluated and recommendations are made for safe storage and administration.
Puzovic
Marko
M
Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Pharmaceutical Department, Petrova 3, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia. marko.puzovic@hztm.htnet.hr
Hardy
Gil
G
D004347:Drug Interactions; D004355:Drug Stability; D004356:Drug Storage / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D006635:Histamine H2 Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D010288:Parenteral Nutrition / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D012996:Solutions; D013696:Temperature; D013997:Time Factors
D006635:Histamine H2 Antagonists; D012996:Solutions