Which administration detail for paclitaxel is advised to minimize infusion-related toxicity?

• A. Administer via a 0.3 micron in-line filter using a glass bottle or non-PVC bag and tubing
• B. No filtration is required
• C. Administer as a rapid IV push without a filter
• D. Use a large-volume saline flush without a filter

Answer: (A)

Paclitaxel can cause infusion-related toxicity from drug particulates and interactions with the IV materials. Using an inline filter, typically around 0.3 microns, helps remove particulates or aggregates that could provoke a reaction as the drug is infused. Delivering the drug through a glass bottle or a non-PVC bag and tubing minimizes the amount of drug that sticks to plastic surfaces, helping ensure the patient receives the full prescribed dose and reducing local irritation. Together, these steps lower the chance and severity of infusion-related toxicity.

Skipping the filter allows particulates to enter the bloodstream, administering the drug as a rapid IV push bypasses the controlled infusion rate and increases reaction risk, and relying on a saline flush without a filter does not address either particulate removal or drug adsorption to plastics.