Leaching of diethylhexyl phthalate from polyvinyl chloride bags into intravenous etoposide solution

Objective: To compare the release of diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) bags from four different manufacturers into intravenous etoposide solutions. Method Etoposide solutions, 0.4 mg/mL, containing the vehicle polysorbate 80 were prepared in 5% dextrose or 0.9% sodium chloride injection PVC bags and stored at room temperature for 24 h. DEHP content was analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results Substantial amounts of DEHP (up to 20 mug/mL at room temperature) leached into the etoposide solutions. However, no significant differences were found in the amounts of DEHP leached into the etoposide infusion solutions prepared using either 5% dextrose or 0.9% sodium chloride injection and stored in the four different containers. Conclusion To minimize patient exposure o DEHP, etoposide solutions should ideally be stored in a glass or polyolefin container.