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Tue, 02/21/2012 - 00:08

mary deschneau

Tacrolimus (Prograf) infusion

I had an ICU clinican tell me that Prograf is infused only through a designated PIV and never through a PICC or other CVC, because it "will destroy" the catheter. To my knowledge there is no contra-indication to infuse the drug via a PICC or any CVC. Does anyone have any additional information on this drug/infusion?

Thank you

Mary Deschneau- UMMC

Fri, 02/24/2012 - 16:19

valoriedunn

This comes directly from out

This comes directly from out "clinical pharmacy" resource.

Intravenous Administration:

Because of the risk of hypersensitivity reactions (see Contraindications/Precautions), IV administration should be reserved for patients who cannot take tacrolimus orally. Oral therapy should replace IV therapy as soon as possible.
Observe patients for 30 minutes after beginning the infusion and frequently thereafter for possible hypersensitivity reactions.
Due to chemical instability, tacrolimus should not be mixed or infused with solutions with a pH >= 9 (e.g., acyclovir or ganciclovir).
Intravenous Infusion:
- Administer tacrolimus through non-PVC tubing to minimize the potential for drug adsorption onto the tubing.
- Infuse the required daily dose of the diluted IV solution over 24 hours.

Valorie Dunn,BSN, RN, CRNI, PLNC

Fri, 02/24/2012 - 16:41

(Reply to #2) #3

lynncrni

DEHP or phthlates are common

DEHP or phthlates are common plasticizers in regular IV tubing and bags made of polyvinyl chlordie or PVC. Some drugs will cause DEHP to leach from the bag or tubing and be infused to the patient. Look for fluid containers made of EVA or other plastics without DEHP and look for IV sets without DEHP. Sets must have this information on their label now. However, DEHP is NOT used in the manufacturer of the actual IV catheter. So the original question about this drug destroying the catheter is false!! Lynn

Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, BC, CRNI

Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.

126 Main Street, PO Box 10

Milner, GA 30257

Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com

Office Phone 770-358-7861

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