MHRA caution in use alert: lorazepam injection 4mg/mL

28th May 2013

The UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued a caution in use alert for specific batches of lorazepam injection 4mg/mL, 1mL ampoules (Ativan; Pfizer). Although no specific problems have been reported with these batches, glass particles have been identified in a small number of ampoules of subsequent batches (which have not been released). As a precautionary measure and to keep supply of lorazepam injection within circulation, the following procedures should be followed prior to administration:

• all ampoules should be individually checked for particulate matter and not used if found to contain any
• draw up the injection into the syringe via a 5 micron filter needle or filter straw
• replace the filter needle or filter straw with a new sterile needle before administration.

For more information, including the batches affected, see below.

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