Drug Information for ISOFLURANE, USP (HOSPIRA, INC.): HOW SUPPLIED

Isoflurane, USP, is supplied in 100 mL and 250 mL amber-colored bottles (NDC 0409-3292-01 and NDC 0409-3292-02).

Safety and Handling: Occupational Caution: There is no specific work exposure limit established for Isoflurane, USP. However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (NIOSH) recommends that no worker should be exposed at ceiling concentrations greater than 2 ppm of any halogenated anesthetic agent over a sampling period not to exceed one hour.

The predicted effects of acute overexposure by inhalation of Isoflurane, USP include headache, dizziness or (in extreme cases) unconsciousness. There are no documented adverse effects of chronic exposure to halogenated anesthetic vapors (Waste Anesthetic Gases or WAGs) in the workplace. Although results of some epidemiological studies suggest a link between exposure to halogenated anesthetics and increased health problems (particularly spontaneous abortion), the relationship is not conclusive. Since exposure to WAGs is one possible factor in the findings for these studies, operating room personnel, and pregnant women in particular, should minimize exposure. Precautions include adequate general ventilation in the operating room, the use of well-designed and well-maintained scavenging system, work practices to minimize leaks and spills while the anesthetic agent is in use, and routine equipment maintenance to minimize leaks.

Storage: Store at 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Isoflurane contains no additives and has been demonstrated to be stable at room temperature for periods in excess of five years.