Effect of storage temperature and pH on the stability of antimicrobial agents in MIC trays.

Twelve antimicrobial agents, ampicillin, aztreonam, cefamandole, cefazolin, cefonicid, ceforanide, ceftazidime, ceftizoxime, ceftriaxone, cefuroxime, ciprofloxacin, and norfloxacin, were prepared at pH 6.80 and 7.31 in microdilution trays for storage at 4, -10, -25, and -70 degrees C and for weekly susceptibility testing. All 12 drugs had stable biological activity when stored at -70 degrees C for 1 year. All but ampicillin and aztreonam were stable at -25 degrees C. Storage at -10 degrees C was least satisfactory. Desiccation occurred at 4 degrees C, but short-term storage at this temperature is possible since the antimicrobial agents are stable for up to several months.