precipitation of drugs
Last reviewed 01/2018
Precipitation may occur due to:
- drug incompatibility (discard if solution precipitates
- too concentrated solution or is discoloured)
- use of saline instead of Water for Injection
Action:
- check BNF for compatibility
- use large enough volumes
- dilute while preparing
Drugs requiring care:
- Dexamethasone: dilute carefully when preparing
- Cyclizine: precipitates above concentration 10mg/ml after 24 hours, in saline, and in higher concentrations of Diamorphine
- Haloperidol: precipitates above concentration of 2mg/ml after 24 hours in mixtures with Diamorphine