Buffer Additives and Packaging Differentially Influence the Stability of Dyes Commonly Used in Chromovitrectomy

PURPOSE: This study was performed to investigate the chemical stability of different dyes used in chromovitrectomy and the influence of various product parameters on it. METHODS: Buffered dye solutions were prepared containing 1.5 g/L acid violet 17, 0.25 g/L brilliant blue G, 1.3 g/L bromophenol blue, and 1.5 g/L trypan blue, combined with deuterium oxide, polyethylene glycol 3350, and D-mannitol as additives. For accelerated storage testing, samples were incubated for 400 h at 80°C corresponding to 2 years according to the Van ‘t Hoff equation. After different incubation times samples were taken for UV/Vis spectroscopy, pH measurement, and osmometry. RESULTS: Depending on dye, additive, and packaging, different solutions exhibit differences in chemical stability and hence shelf life. Packaging in syringes instead of vials increases dye stability. Additives may negatively influence important parameters, e.g. polyethylene glycol 3350 increases osmolality beyond the physiological range. Notably, acid violet 17 is chemically unstable except in D-mannitol-containing buffer, packed in syringes. However, simultaneously, D-mannitol leads to a pH shift below 7.0. CONCLUSION: In summary, dye solutions filled in syringes should be preferred to vials to slow down oxidative degradation. Especially acid violet 17 solutions should be used with caution because the addition of D-mannitol may contribute to pH values beyond the physiological range.