| abstract |
A method of preventing the precipitation of proteins, such as hormone preparations, within drug delivery systems that depend on the fluidity of the infusate for proper function. A polyol, such as glycerol, is mixed with the protein solution prior to the introduction of the solution into the drug delivery system. The polyol is added in amount sufficient to prevent precipitation of the protein during long-term storage in the drug delivery device. According to one form of usage, the protein-polyol solution is injected to the pressurized drug storage reservoir of an implanted infusion pump by injection through the patient's skin. As the solution is discharged from the delivery device by the constant pressure exerted upon the storage chamber, its low rate of flow is controlled by a restricted fluid passage. The solution is conveyed to an infusion site and diluted by the blood stream. |