Stability of Concentrated Solution of Vancomycin Hydrochloride in Syringes for Intensive Care Units

Abstract Background Vancomycin is increasingly administrated by continuous infusion. But the treatment of patient in intensive care need restricted volume to prevent fluid overload. The aim of the study was to evaluate the physical and chemical stability of solutions of a high concentration of vancomycin hydrochloride in 5 % glucose or 0.9 % NaCl. Methods Eight syringes of 50 mL, containing 41.66 mg/mL of vancomycin hydrochloride four syringes in 5 % glucose and four in 0.9 % NaCl were prepared and stored at ambient temperature during 48 h. Immediately after preparation and during 48 h, vancomycin hydrochloride concentrations were measured by a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Spectrophotometric absorbance at different wavelengths, pH measurement and microscopic observations were also performed. Results All solutions were physico-chemically stable during the whole period storage at ambient temperature: no color change, turbidity, precipitation or opacity, no significant pH variations or optic densities were observed in the solutions. Any crystals were seen by microscopic analysis. Solutions are considered chemically stable as the lower limit of the 95 % unilateral confidence interval on the mean remained above 90 % of the initial concentration for at least 48 h. Conclusions Solutions of vancomycin hydrochloride 41.66 mg/mL in syringe of 5 % glucose or 0.9 % NaCl are physically and chemically stable for at least 48 h when stored in syringes at ambient temperature.