spikes

Spikes for Safe Withdrawal from Multi-Dose Containers

Spikes, also known as withdrawal and injection spikes, are used to provide repeated access to multi-dose containers such as medication vials. The sharp tip pierces the rubber stopper of the container and then, via a Luer connector, allows for multiple, sterile withdrawals or injections of medications without having to pierce the container anew each time. They are used in doctors’ offices, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and oncology settings—anywhere where medications are withdrawn from or injected into multi-dose containers. As part of infusion and withdrawal procedures, spikes complement the product line with specialized accessories for low-contamination access to such containers.

Depending on the model, spikes differ in filter configuration, valve technology, and intended area of application. This allows users to select a suitable model based on the specific medication and safety requirements.

Features and Benefits of Spikes

Spikes consist of a pointed insertion needle and a Luer connector, to which a syringe or infusion line can be attached. Depending on the model, the filter configuration, valve technology, and protective cap vary, making the spikes suitable for different medications and safety requirements.

Typical features of spikes:

• A sharp insertion needle for piercing the rubber stopper of multi-dose containers
• Luer or Luer-Lock connector for syringes and infusion lines
• Depending on the model, an integrated venting filter for pressure equalization during withdrawal
• Depending on the model, an additional particle filter that retains particles larger than a certain size
• Depending on the model, a needle-free valve for drip-free, self-closing withdrawal
• Colored snap-on caps to protect the connector from contamination
• Individually sterile-packed and intended for single use

Which of these features apply in each specific case depends heavily on the model in question. For general clinical use, a spike with a standard venting filter is often sufficient, whereas for cytostatic drugs or particularly sensitive medications, specifically selected models with an additional particulate filter or valve technology may be more appropriate.

Which spikes are suitable for which applications?

The B. Braun Mini-Spike® withdrawal and injection spike is suitable for general clinical use. According to the product specifications, it features an integrated, bacteria-proof 0.45 µm venting filter as well as a green snap-on cap that protects the Luer-Lock connector from contamination.

For withdrawal from smaller medication containers requiring enhanced particle protection, the B. Braun Mini-Spike® Filter with a 5 μm particle filter is suitable. According to the product specifications, in addition to the venting filter, it features an additional 5 µm particle filter and a narrow piercing needle for small vials.

The B.Braun Mini-Spike® 2 Chemo is suitable for handling cytostatic drugs. According to the product specifications, it is equipped with a 0.2 µm venting filter, a 5 µm particle filter, and a needle-free Safeflow valve for drip-free withdrawal, and is specifically designed for oncology.

What should you look for when purchasing spikes?

A key selection criterion is the intended medication. For general medications, a spike with a standard vent filter is usually sufficient, while cytostatic drugs or medications that are particularly sensitive to particles require models with an additional particle filter or valve technology.

The connector type also plays a role. A Luer-Lock connector enables a secure, twist-proof connection to a syringe or infusion line. Those who frequently open smaller medication containers should also look for a correspondingly narrow puncture needle.

When using toxic or particularly sensitive active ingredients, it’s also worth considering additional safety features such as a needle-free valve for drip-free, low-contamination withdrawal. Within the infusion and withdrawal categories, you’ll also find other suitable consumables for daily practice.

Standard spike, particle filter, or chemo version—which spike is right for you?

Spikes with standard vent filters are designed for general clinical use and allow for easy pressure equalization during repeated access to a multi-dose container.

Spikes with an additional particle filter also trap particles larger than a certain size and are therefore suitable for applications where increased protection against particle contamination is desired, such as with smaller medication containers.

Spikes in the Chemo version with a needle-free valve serve a more specialized purpose: They are specifically designed for the safe handling of cytostatic drugs and are intended to enable drip-free, self-closing dispensing. Which version is appropriate therefore depends on the specific drug and the applicable safety requirements—no single version is inherently better suited than another.

Usage and Instructions for Spikes

Before use, the rubber stopper of the multi-dose container should be checked for integrity and, if indicated, disinfected. The spike is then inserted straight and carefully into the stopper to prevent the tip from tilting or breaking off.

After piercing, the snap-on cap should remain closed until the next withdrawal to protect the Luer connector from contamination. According to the manufacturer’s instructions, the length of time a spike may remain in an opened container depends on the prescribing information for the specific medication and the shelf-life and storage conditions specified therein.

Spikes are intended for single use and must not be reused after use. Sharp and pointed consumables must be disposed of properly in a suitable sharps container.

Compatible Accessories for Spikes

• Needles
• Syringes
• Infusion supplies

Cannulas complement spikes in applications that require additional access, while syringes are needed for the actual withdrawal or injection via the spike’s Luer connector. Infusion supplies provide additional accessories for preparing and performing infusion procedures. Together with other infusion and withdrawal products, this allows you to assemble the right equipment for accessing multi-dose containers.