Simulated Infusion of Paclitaxel with In-Line Filters

Abstract

Background: Paclitaxel is one of the most effective anticancer drugs ever developed. To prevent hazards associated with intravenous (IV) administration which include the formation of microbubbles, microbiological contamination and particulate matter, the suppliers recommend that an in-line IV filter should be used during the infusion of the chemotherapeutic agent. Methods: To rule out the possibility that polyethersulfone (PES) membranes retain the paclitaxel during filtration, we carried out specific tests. Paclitaxel retention by PES in-line IV filters was evaluated by a simulated-drug IV infusion and high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. Results: In our model of study, no variation of paclitaxel concentration was revealed before and after filtration using two different filter devices. Conclusions: The results suggest that, under our experimental conditions, paclitaxel concentration in saline solution remains constant before and after filtration. Indeed, our study indicates that the filters analyzed herein, other than preventing hazards associated with IV administration, do not retain paclitaxel, thus avoiding the reduction of the drug concentration and potency during filtration.

Effectiveness of in-Line Filters to Completely Remove Particulate Contamination During a Pediatric Multidrug Infusion Protocol

“…Chemical analysis could also determine any interactions between drugs and filter membrane, in relation to drug retention. A limited number of cases concord with this 29 , whereas most studies have revealed no variations in drug concentration when using in-line filters 30 – 33 . Room temperature should also be taken into account because of its impact on particle formation.…”