Sample-free NIR analysis of compounded anti-cancer drugs

GERPAC Congress highlights

A near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopic method for analytical checks of compounded anti-cancer drugs could replace the current double visual checks in future, according Julie Evrard (Groupe Hospitalier Artois-Ternois). The major advantage of the NIR method is that the measurements are carried out through the final container – a bag, syringe or elastomeric pump – and no sample is required.

An evaluation of a NIR device (Ayna Analytics) was undertaken to evaluate its performance under real-life conditions. During a three-month period 10 commonly-prepared drugs – five cytotoxic drugs and five monoclonal antibodies – were included. For each molecule, diluents and final containers were identified in order to establish the calibration curves. Up to 50 data points for each molecule are required for calibration. During the study double visual checks (“four eyes”) were continued.

Ms Evrard said that the analytical procedure took just two minutes. So far, this analytical procedure has been validated for routine use for daratumumab SC, rituximab SC and fluorouracil Neopump 48h. have been validated for routine use. The next step will be to finalise calibrations for the remaining molecules before extending the project to include other molecules and containers.

During the discussion one member of the audience said that in a department that prepares 70 doses a day, this technology could eliminate the need for a someone to perform the visual checks (second checks).

Evrard J. et al. Analytical control of anticancer agents via sample-free near infrared spectroscopy: first feedback. Short communication. GERPAC Congress 2025

Photo – Julie Evrard