Compatibility of enteral products with commonly employed drug additives

Although drugs are routinely administered through gavage feedings set along with enteral products, there is little scientific data available to the physician, pharmacist, nurse, and dietician concerning the physical and chemical compatibility of drugs with enteral formulations. This study assesses the compatibility of Ensure (Ross Laboratories, Columbus, OH), Ensure Plus (Ross Laboratories, Columbus, OH), Osmolite (Ross Laboratories, Columbus, OH) with antibiotics, gastrointestinal agents, antipsychotic agents, urinary antiseptics cough and cold medications, and other commonly used additives. All enteral formulations were examined immediately after mixing for phase changes, creaming, and particle growth using a contrast light and a rotation viscometer. Results are presented in a tabular format. Guidelines and recommendations concerning how the addition of troublesome drug additives can be added are also presented.