B. Braun to Increase Production of Drug-Delivery System

Originally Published MDDI September/October 2003

NEWSTRENDS

In August, B. Braun Medical Inc. announced the launch of a new, high-speed production line to meet a growing demand for the firm's Duplex drug-delivery system. The Duplex system is designed to simplify intravenous antibiotic delivery to patients, eliminate the pharmacy labor component of IV antibiotic delivery, and reduce drug waste.

According to to the firm, traditional systems involve long preparation time and strenuous hand and wrist motion to attach drug vials to the IV bags. Technicians must also reuse a dose that was returned after the base solution bag was removed from its overwrap within 15 to 30 days. The Duplex system's long shelf life enables the firm to cut costs by reducing the IV drug waste.

The Duplex system consists of a prefilled PVC-, DEHP-, and latex-free IV bag containing the drug and diluent in different compartments that are separated by a quick-release seal. The caregiver squeezes the bag to mix the drug and diluent just prior to administration. Product can be stored at room temperature, and oxygen- and moisture-barrier technologies protect the drug powder from vapor and oxygen transfer.

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