Plasma-Lyte 148 and Plasma-Lyte 148 + 5% glucose compatibility with commonly used critical care drugs

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Plasma-Lyte is a balanced, crystalloid intravenous fluid which has been shown to avoid the hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis associated with 0.9% sodium chloride. Data on physical, pH and chemical compatibility with other medicines are essential. Methods The compatibility of adrenaline, dobutamine, dopamine, furosemide, midazolam, morphine and milrinone with Plasma-Lyte 148 (PLA) and Plasma-Lyte 148 with 5% glucose (PLA-G) was investigated. Control solutions were 0.9% sodium chloride and 5% glucose. Chemical stability was defined as < 5% concentration change with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Physical compatibility was assessed by checking for colour changes and precipitate formation. The pH of the admixtures was considered acceptable if between 5 and 9 at all time points. Six repeats were carried out for HPLC, 2 for physical compatibility checks and pH measurements, with all admixtures being tested at 0, 2 and 24 h after mixing. Results All combinations were found to be chemically stable at 0, 2 and 24 h apart from furosemide with PLA-G at 24 h and midazolam with PLA or PLA-G at both 2 and 24 h. Only midazolam was physically incompatible when mixed with both Plasma-Lyte solutions. The pH remained stable in all admixtures, although not all pH values recorded were within the range of 5–9. Conclusion All drugs excluding furosemide and midazolam were shown to be chemically, physically and pH stable at the tested concentrations when diluted with PLA and PLA-G.