Phenol products vary in their licensed status and other characteristics which affects their suitability for intrathecal administration

Licensed for intrathecal use

Products licensed for intrathecal use are the first line option and should be used wherever suitable.

There are currently no known phenol products licensed for intrathecal administration.

Unlicensed ‘Special’, specified for intrathecal use

Unlicensed medicines that are manufactured in MHRA-licensed Specials Manufacturing Units, at the request of an authorised healthcare professional specifically for intrathecal use.

Glycerol injection

Ipswich Hospital – Pharmacy Manufacturing Unit

Phenol in Glycerol Injection

Strength

5% w/w in 5mL ampoules
7.5% w/w in 5mL ampoules

Meglumine Iothalamate injection

Stepping Hill Hospital – Stockport Pharmaceuticals

Phenol and Meglumine Iothalamate Injection

Strength

6% Phenol in 60% Meglumine Iothalamate in 5mL amps

Unlicensed ‘Special’, specified for intraspinal use

Unlicensed medicines that are manufactured in MHRA-licensed Specials Manufacturing Units, at the request of an authorised healthcare professional specifically for epidural use.

Aqueous injection

Ipswich Hospital – Pharmacy Manufacturing Unit

Phenol Aqueous Injection (for epidural use)

Strength

6% w/w in 5mL ampoules

Stepping Hill Hospital – Stockport Pharmaceuticals

Phenol Aqueous Injection

Strength

6% w/w in 10mL ampoules