In vitro stability of sodium nitroprusside solutions for intravenous administration

A sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic assay for nitroprusside using an ion-exchange column and UV detection was developed to evaluate the stability of aqueous solutions of sodium nitroprusside in light-protected glass and plastic containers and during simulated infusions. The results showed that sodium nitroprusside is stable in 5% dextrose, normal saline, and lactated Ringer's solutions in light-protected glass or plastic containers. In addition, there was no decrease in the delivered potency of sodium nitroprusside solutions during simulated infusions lasting up to 24 h.