RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 PP-019 Compatibility of irinotecan-loaded DC beads with different volumes and types of non-ionic contrast media JF European Journal of Hospital Pharmacy JO Eur J Hosp Pharm FD British Medical Journal Publishing Group SP A124 OP A124 DO 10.1136/ejhpharm-2015-000639.299 VO 22 IS Suppl 1 A1 I Sarakbi YR 2015 UL http://ejhp.bmj.com/content/22/Suppl_1/A124.1.abstract AB Background Drug-loaded microspheres are used for chemoembolization of liver tumours and metastases. Prior to their administration, the drug-loaded microsphere suspension is mixed with non-ionic contrast media to guide the delivery via a transarterial catheter.Purpose To evaluate the compatibility of irinotecan-loaded DC Beads (bead size M1) with different types and volumes of non-ionic contrast media over a maximum period of 24 h and storage at room temperature.Material and methods 2 mL DC Beads were loaded with 100 mg irinotecan within 2 h. After removal of the excess solutions, and addition of 2 mL of water for injection to each syringe, the concentrations of irinotecan loaded were determined by using a reversed phase HPLC assay with ultraviolet detection.To study the compatibility of irinotecan-eluting beads (IEBs) with different types and volumes of contrast media, IEBs were mixed with up to four different volumes of seven contrast media and the samples were withdrawn after 30, 60, 120, 240, 480, and 1,440 min. The concentrations of eluted irinotecan were measured in triplicate by HPLC. Admixtures of IEBs-contrast medium were stored light-protected at room temperature over a period of 24 h.Results Irinotecan release was different in rate and quantity relying on the type and volume of contrast medium admixed. Mixing of irinotecan-loaded beads with non-ionic contrast media decreased the irinotecan loading efficiency by 2.5–18% over a maximum period of 24 h. Because of the initial rapid release (1–9%) it is not recommendable to prepare admixtures of IEBs with contrast medium in advance in centralised cytotoxic preparation units.Conclusion IEBs are not compatible with typically used non-ionic contrast media. Admixtures should be performed by the interventional radiologists immediately prior to the delivery procedure.ReferenceKaiser J, Krämer I. Physiochemical stability of irinotecan injection concentrate and diluted infusion solutions in PVC bagsReferenceNo conflict of interest.