Epadel S®,a seamless capsule form of ethyl icosapentate (EPA-E),was made into a suspension in 20 ml of hot water (55°C) and stirred with a polystyrene (PS) disposable spoon.When left in the suspension,the surface of the spoon started to dissolve after 45 minutes,and was completely dissolved after 12 hours.We also investigated the dissolution of PS utensils in suspensions made from teprenone (Selbex®) capsules or powder,or gefarnate (Gefanil®) capsules.
Up till now,there have been no reports of toxicity due to PS or the non-reactants and/or by-products produced in the PS production process.However,as the dissolution of spoons,cups or other common utensils made of PS in drug suspensions could cause concern among patients,caregivers,and medical staff,it is important to instruct them to avoid the use of such utensils when preparing drug suspensions.