Background: Surface contamination with cytotoxic drug residue is a potential occupational health hazard to staff working in cytotoxic compounding areas and oncology wards. Aim: To identify surfaces contaminated with cytotoxic drug residue and to indicate the risk of exposure to health workers handling cytotoxic drug residue. Method: Wipe sampling was used to investigate surface contamination and occupational skin exposure to the marker cytotoxic drugs, fluorouracil (5-FU) and gemcitabine (GEM), in the pharmacy cytotoxic compounding section and oncology wards. Drug packaging, primary containers and gowns were also examined. Samples were analysed using a validated HPLC method. Repeat sampling was performed on selected surfaces to monitor any impact after implementing changes in practice. Results:The majority of surfaces tested were contaminated. The cytotoxic work room (5-FU 56.7-320 µg/m 2 ; GEM 75-370 µg/m 2 ) and oncology wards had similar levels of contamination. Cytotoxic drug residue was detected on original containers and drug vials (5-FU < 3-6 µg; GEM 7.8-7.9 µg/wipe sample) stored in the cytotoxic work room but not on containers delivered directly from the distributor, suggesting that accidental contamination by pharmacy personnel does occur. Contamination was also detected on sections of the gowns (GEM around 0.9 mg/m 2 ) worn by nurses in the oncology wards.

Background: Apart from generic guidelines for the safe handling of cytotoxic drugs in pharmacy departments, there is no specific published literature pertaining to cleaning procedures and inadvertent exposure to paclitaxel. Aim: To examine occupational exposure to paclitaxel; to identify an effective decontamination reagent; and to determine suitable glove type for skin protection. Method: 8 decontamination reagents were tested for paclitaxel degradation. Air sampling filters, Ghost Wipes and cotton wipes were tested under different storage conditions (room temperature, ≤ 4

Objective: To demonstrate the disruptive effect of albumin on fat emulsion homogeneity in total nutrient admixtures (TNAs) stored at room temperature. Method: A series of TN As containing variable amounts of concentrated albumin 20% infusion were compounded with and without standard quantities of calcium and magnesium ions. Samples were withdrawn from each admixture and stored in Pyrex glass centrifuge tubes enabling easy visual inspection for creaming, cracking and the presence of free oil. Microscopic examination was used to verify gross visual results and to detect destabilisation that was not readily apparent. Results: Incompatibility between albumin and fat emulsion was observed in a number of the TN As examined. Conclusion: Concentrated albumin 20% infusion should be included in TNAs with caution, particularly in combination with other additives that have the potential to cause fat emulsion destabilisation. Where possible, albumin should be administered separately and not via Y -type infusion. Aust J Hosp Pharm 1999; 29: 210-12.

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Aim To investigate a compounding process for temozolomide 10 mg/mL suspension from capsules without using a mortar and pestle; and the stability of the suspension under refrigeration (2 to 8 °C) and at room temperature (22 to 23 °C). Method Temozolomide 10 mg/mL suspension was prepared using a modified formulation and method to contain the product in the final container and limit operator exposure to cytotoxic powder or residue. Decontamination was undertaken of work and finished product surfaces. Samples were stored at room temperature and under refrigeration. Both samples were protected from light and stored in identical polypropylene containers. High‐pressure liquid chromatography was used to assay the potency of the suspension. Results The sample refrigerated and protected from light exhibited little or no chemical degradation for 22 days. At room temperature, the concentration fell below the acceptable concentration after 8 days. An acceptable product was produced which re‐suspended evenly when shaken. Conclusion Preliminary results indicate that temozolomide 10 mg/mL suspension prepared via this method, refrigerated, protected from light and stored in polypropylene containers may be stable for up to 22 days.