A perspective on di-2-ethyl-hexyphthalate in intravenous therapy.

Di-2-ethyl-hexyphthalate (DEHP) is a major component of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is the plastic of choice used to fabricate disposable medical devices. Most containers and tubings used to administer intravenous therapy are made with PVC, and DEHP controls the strength and pliability of these PVC products. Certain infusates have been shown to leach DEHP from plastic. The possibility of harmful effects to the human body is a concern, especially to infants and pregnant females. Carcinogenicity, hepatotoxicity, teratogenicity, and more recently, cardiotoxic effects have been documented, yet we continue to use these products that leach DEHP when alternatives are available. Exposure to this substance can be minimized with careful adherence to manufacturers' recommendations when administering substances that leach DEHP.