The syringe, which Infusive named ChaSyr, is dual-chambered meaning one push delivers two separate intravenous medications sequentially and is due to be on the US market in 2009.
By using the technology healthcare professionals can remove the need to use two separate syringes, which brings a range of benefits when using an intravenous (IV) line.
Jeffrey Yordon, CEO of Sagent, said: “We believe that this dual-chamber syringe technology has far reaching benefits which will allow health care providers to deliver multiple drugs more quickly and more safely than with multiple syringes.
"The simplicity and functionality of this device yield near-term opportunities for use with both proprietary and multi-source pharmaceutical products.”
Healthcare professionals sometimes need to administer a medication followed by flush solution, a process that requires two syringes. Flushes are needed to; prevent incompatible drugs from mixing; ensure the correct dose is delivered in a prescribed time; keep the IV line clear; reduce infection rates; and prevent accidental exposure to hazardous drugs such as chemotherapy.
These advantages are applicable to a range of medications, including antibiotics, chemotherapy and emergency treatments such as adenosine that need an immediate bolus flush.
To remove the need for two syringes while keeping the benefits provided by flushing ChaSyr has a two-part stopper in its chamber to keep the lyophilised, powder or liquid therapeutic and the flush solution separate during storage and delivery.
When the syringe is used the therapeutic is delivered first, followed by the flush solution. The stopper also prevents any air trapped in the rear chamber from being delivered to the patient.
The syringe has a bi-stable valve that allows the user to detect when the second chamber has started to empty.
By using one syringe to deliver therapeutics the process could be quicker and easier, which could be important in a critical situation.
Additionally, as fewer IV line breaks and product manipulations are needed the risk of hospital acquired infection and user error is reduced. The system also helps reduce fluid reflux according to Infusive.
Sagent’s injectables portfolio
Sagent markets a range of products covering pre-filled syringes, premixed bags for IV and therapeutics in glass vials.
It claims to have over 200 products in its developmental pipeline and this acquisition is viewed as being in line with the company’s strategic direction.