Storage of Flucytosine

Availability

• Flucytosine solution for Infusion, Ancotil 2.5g/250ml

Stability

• A solution of flucytosine for intravenous infusion should be stored between 18 and 25°.
• Precipitation may occur at lower temperatures and decomposition, with the formation of fluorouracil, at higher temperatures.

Evidences for Light Sensitivity:

• 5-FU is decomposed by ultraviolet light but when protected from light the stability of 5-FU has been reported to be reasonably in aqueous solutions
• In a few studies the stability of 5-FU has been tested in portable infusion pumps, PVC bags, ambulatory pump reservoirs and in plastic containers used for infusion at home and 5-FU is stable in aqueous intravenous solutions up to 14 days when stored at C and up to at least 16 weeks when stored at 5 C in 5% dextrose injection

Recommendations:

• No specific recommendation for light protection during administration of drug
• Based on some infusion protocol, there is no ‘light protection of infusion’ that is recommended

References:

1. Chapter VII An Accelerated Stability Study of Flucytosine in Intravenous Solution. http://hdl.handle.net/11245/2.12024
2. IV Flucytosine Infusion Protocol.  WOMEN AND NEWBORN HEALTH SERVICE. Neonatology Clinical Care Unit (NCCU) King Edward Memorial Hospital & Princess Margaret Hospital
3. http://www.adhb.govt.nz/newborn/drugprotocols/FlucytosineAdministration.htm