Purpose. The stability of diluted adenosine solutions in polyvinyl chloride infusion bags was studied. Methods. Adenosine 50-, 100-, and 220-mu g/mL solutions were prepared in 50-mL polyvinyl chloride (PVC) infusion bags containing 0.9% sodium chloride injection or 5% dextrose injection and stored at room temperature (23-25 degrees C) or under refrigeration (2-8 degrees C). Each sample of every combination of concentration, diluent, and storage temperature was prepared in triplicate, yielding 36 samples. The samples were assayed using a stability-indicating, reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method immediately after preparation (time zero) and at 24 hours, 48 hours, 7 days, and 14 days. pH was measured at time zero, 48 hours, 7 days, and 14 days.Time zero concentrations were calculated from the equation produced from a calibration curve of standards ranging from 10 to 500 mu g/mL. Samples were also visually inspected against a light back-ground for clarity, color, and the presence of crystalline particulate matter. Stability was defined as retaining at least 90% of the initial adenosine concentration. Results. After 14 days, all samples retained greater than 98% of the initial adenosine concentration, with no evidence of adsorption, visible precipitation, or considerable change in pH, suggesting minimal to no loss of product due to degradation or adsorption. Conclusion. Adenosine 50-, 100-, and 220-mu g/mL solutions in 50-mL PVC infusion bags containing 0.9% sodium chloride injection or 5% dextrose injection stored at room temperature and refrigerated conditions were stable for at least 14 days.
