Physical compatibility of alprostadil with selected drugs commonly used in the neonatal intensive care units.

This study aimed to determine the physical compatibility of alprostadil with 17 continuous infusion drugs commonly administered in neonatal intensive care units. Test samples were prepared in a laminar airflow hood. Alprostadil 20 mcg/ml was mixed with each drug in a 1:1 ratio, in two orders of mixing. Physical stability of the admixtures was assessed by visual examination and by measuring turbidity. Visual examination was conducted by two observers by two methods: visual examination against a black and white background under normal fluorescent light and using a high-intensity monodirectional light. pH was measured as chemical stability predictor. Evaluations were performed immediately and 4 h after mixing. An additional visual control was performed at 24 h. Visual examination was positive or doubtful for the four drug combinations not considered compatible. Turbidity values were under 0.5 NTU throughout the study in all samples. No modifications of one pH unit or more was detected in any drug pair over time.Conclusion: Alprostadil was considered physical compatible with 13 drugs (adrenalin, amiodarone, calcium gluconate, dobutamine, dopamine, fentanyl, flecainide, furosemide, heparin, ketamine, midazolam, milrinone and morphine). Incompatibility could not be ruled out for 3 drugs (cisatracurium, dexmedetomidine and noradrenalin), and insulin was considered incompatible with alprostadil. What is Known: • Y-site administration is common in neonatal intensive care units, and volume of diluents and rate of infusions in newborns were lower than in adults which might result in high concentrations and prolonged contact time at Y-site administration. • Available data about compatibility of alprostadil with other drugs was scarce. What is New: • Alprostadil was compatible with 13 drugs commonly used in neonatal intensive care units. • Insulin was considered incompatible with alprostadil, and incompatibility cannot be ruled out for cisatracurium, dexmedetomidine and noradrenalin with alprostadil.