Seventy-two-hour stability of Taxol® in 5% dextrose or 0.9% sodium chloride in Viaflo®, Freeflex®, Ecoflac® and Macoflex N® non-PVC bags

Background and objectives: Taxol(R) (paclitaxel), is an antimicrotubule agent widely prescribed for the treatment of many tumoral diseases. Taxol(R) must be used in non-polyvinyl chloride bags, diluted to concentrations of 0.3-1.2 mg/mL in 5% dextrose or in 0.9% sodium chloride. Under these conditions, Taxol(R) is chemically and physically stable for 27 h at 25 degrees C. The aim of the study was to evaluate the 72-h stability of Taxol(R) under common clinical use conditions. Methods: Taxol(R) was diluted with 5% dextrose and 0.9% sodium chloride to final concentrations of 0.3 and 1.2 mg/mL in four polyolefin bags (Viaflo(R), Freeflex(R), Ecoflac(R) and Macoflex N(R)). Taxol(R)-stability, was assessed by turbidimetry and by high-performance liquid chromatography using solutions stored in the dark, over 72 h at +4 degrees C. Results: No haze, turbidity, or precipitate was observed. Paclitaxel concentration remained above 95% of the initial value whatever the solvent or container used. Conclusion: Paclitaxel at 0.3 and 1.2 mg/mL in 5% dextrose and in 0.9% sodium chloride is stable in Viaflo(R), Freeflex(R), Ecoflac(R) and Macoflex N(R) non-PVC bags for 72 h in the dark at +4 degrees C. The longer stability should make the use of Taxol(R) clinical practice easier.