What specific physical incompatibility issue involves active agents sticking to surfaces like plastic IV bags or tubing?
Answer
Adsorption
Adsorption is a physical interaction where active drug molecules adhere to the surface of the administration equipment, rather than remaining dissolved within the bulk fluid. This phenomenon is particularly concerning in intravenous therapy because many modern administration systems utilize plastic materials for IV bags and tubing. Certain active pharmaceutical ingredients have a high affinity for these plastic surfaces, causing them to stick, or adsorb, to the inner walls. The clinical significance of adsorption is that the patient receives a lower actual dose than what was calculated and prepared, as a portion of the drug remains bound to the delivery system throughout the infusion process, leading to sub-therapeutic dosing.
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