The stability of diamorphine alone and in combination with anti-emetics in plastic syringes

Abstract

The compatibility and stability of diamorphine alone and in combination with haloperidol or cyclizine was investigated. The concentration of each drug was monitored during storage in plastic syringes at ambienttemperature. Diamorphine hydrochloride alone could be assigned a shelf life of approximately 18 days. The compatibility and stability of diamorphine was not greatly influenced by the presence of haloperidol, while the addition of cyclizine reduced the stability of the opiate, a shelf life of approximately 10 days being indicated. Concentrations of diamoprhine hydrochloride greater than 20mg/ml cannot be combined with high cyclizine concentrations due to precipitation.