SCHOTT is to expand its TopPac polymer syringes range with a 20ml unit that can be used in combination with syringe pumps for infusion therapy.
TopPac prefillable syringes (PFS) are compatible with various syringe pumps, and the exact outer diameter enables automated recognition by the syringe pumps. They are also compatible with the IV devices, i.e. needle less luer access devices (NLADs).
Optimized siliconization ensures consistent gliding forces for smooth drug application and also reduces the interaction of silicone with the drug during the shelf life.
The new TopPac 20ml PFS will be available from December 2013 on. With this move, SCHOTT is enhancing its portfolio for large volume syringes for intensive care which already includes a 10ml and 50ml format. SCHOTT TopPac PFS are available in the sizes 1ml to 50ml.
Improved safety in infusion therapy
Healthcare professionals often rely on infusion therapy in clinical settings such as intensive care units, critical care, emergency rooms and surgery centres. The most common medications administered through syringe pumps are pain medications, anaesthetics and cardiovascular medications.
As the majority of these medications have a narrow margin of safety, the delivery of the right drug in the right concentration and right dose is critical. Even seemingly minor errors may cause significant harm to a patient. Current practices often involve a manual multi-step preparation process for transferring drugs from their primary containers like ampoules or vials to disposable syringes, a multi-step manual preparation process that is prone to human error. Using prefilled syringes such as TopPac simplifies the preparation process and reduces the likelihood of medication errors significantly.
SCHOTT has designed TopPac syringes to support the zero tolerance practice for infusion-related adverse events. The syringes are pre-filled with the accurate dose of the correct medication by pharmaceutical companies to reduce the risk of medication errors significantly. This also ensures timely delivery of medications because the medical personal can prepare and administer the drug much more quickly. An integrated Luer Lock assures a leak-proof connection between the syringe and the IV line and reduces the risk of unintended disconnection. Due to the fact that they are made of polymer material these syringes offer a high break resistance.
SCHOTT manufactures TopPac in a fully integrated clean room production environment. This ensures low contamination and particle levels without washing. The syringes are supplied in common nests and tubs, which can be integrated into existing filling lines. The transparency of the COC raw material also facilitates visual inspections on filling lines. All in all, the benefits of TopPac syringes translate into reduced total cost of ownership for pharmaceutical companies and health care facilities.