Compatibility Screening of Gatifloxacin during Simulated Y-Site Administration with other Drugs

Abstract

The physical compatibility of gatifloxacin injection (Tequin, Bristol-Myers Squibb) with 110 other drugs during simulated Y-site injection was evaluated by visual observation and turbidity measurement, and by electronic particle content assessment if appropriate. Five-milli-liter samples of gatifloxacin injection 2 mg/mL in 5% dextrose injection were combined with 5 mL samples of 110 other drugs. The secondary test drugs included anti-infectives, analgesics, antihistamines, diuretics, steroids, and other supportive care drugs. Visual examinations were performed with the unaided eye in normal diffuse fluorescent light and using a Tyndall beam. The turbidity of each sample was measured as well. Most of the test drugs were compatible with the gatifloxacin admixture during the 4-hour observation period. However, 14 drugs resulted in physical incompatibilities when combined with the admixture. Gatifloxacin admixtures should not be administered simultaneously with these incompatible drugs.