Title
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Standard Operating Procedure for Use of Common Analgesics in Animals
EHS SOP #: 014
Version No.: 1.0
Supercedes: N/A
Introduction
Purpose
This document establishes procedures for the safe handling and use of common analgesics in University Division of Comparative Medicine (DCM) facilities and research laboratories. Common analgesic agents include carprofen, meloxicam, and buprenorphine.
Scope
This Standard Operating Procedure applies to all research staff and DCM employees when working with these common analgesic agents in DCM facilities.
Standard Operating Procedure
Common Analgesic Agents and Health Effects
Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used as an analgesic for laboratory animals. It is considered an acute oral toxin under GHS Classification (Category 3; toxic if swallowed) with an LD50 Oral, Rat, 74 mg/kg and acute exposure may cause nausea and heartburn.
Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used as an analgesic for laboratory animals. Acute exposure to meloxicam can result in skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. It is considered an acute oral toxin under GHS Classification (Category 3; toxic if swallowed).
Buprenorphine is one of the most commonly used analgesics for postoperative pain in laboratory animals. Exposure to buprenorphine includes potential nausea, vomiting, and central nervous system depression. It is considered an acute oral toxin under GHS Classification (Category 4; harmful if swallowed) and is a potential reproductive hazard, suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child. Buprenorphine is a Schedule III controlled substance under the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Controlled Substances Act and has strict requirements for purchase, storage, handling, and use due to its potential for abuse. Pregnant individuals should consult their primary care physician before handling.
Requirements
Administrative Controls
- The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) “Use of Chemical Hazards in Animals” form is not required for submission for use of the common injectable anesthetic agents listed in this SOP.
- Anyone who handles these common analgesic agents or works with animals to administer these analgesic agents are required to review this SOP and the attached Safety Data Sheet (SDS) prior to work.
- For use of buprenorphine, the laboratory must obtain a DEA and state license. The laboratory may not borrow or use another laboratories controlled substances to administer to animals. For more information on controlled substances, see Chapter 9 of the Laboratory Safety Manual.
- Buprenorphine mixtures, solids, or stock solutions need to be kept locked and secured at all times following DEA and state regulations for controlled substances. These must be returned to the registered DEA location at the end of the solutions use and cannot be stored or kept away from the registered location overnight.
Engineering Controls
- Procedures that involve handling and dissolving solid forms of analgesic agents must be conducted under exhaust ventilation in a chemical fume hood or ducted Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC).
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- For handling, dissolving, or preparing mixtures of analgesic agents, nitrile gloves, a lab coat, and safety glasses are required.
- When in DCM facilities, PPE use must be consistent with facility policy.
Waste Disposal
- Unused solutions of non-controlled analgesic agents and contaminated solid waste will be disposed of as hazardous material through EHS.
- Dilutions and left-over syringe amounts of buprenorphine or mixtures containing buprenorphine can be placed into kitty litter or another appropriate absorbent material. Once full, dispose of as hazardous material through EHS.
- Syringes and other sharps should be placed in puncture resistant sharps container. Do not recap needles.
- Unused solutions or expired solutions of buprenorphine in original manufacturer packaging and containers must go through witnessed destruction with EHS. Contact chemsafety@office.unc.edu to schedule this.
Accidents and Injuries
- Animal bites do not pose any increased risk. As per standard policy, report to supervisor.
- If an analgesic agent solution is splashed on an individual or in eyes flush for 15 minutes with copious quantities of water and contact the University Employee Occupational Health Clinic (919-966-9119).
Spill Procedures
- Do not attempt to clean-up if you feel unsure of your ability to do so or if you perceive the risk to be greater than normal laboratory operations.
- Spills containing buprenorphine or other controlled substances must be immediately reported to EHS (919-962-5507).
- If a small spill occurs absorb with absorbent pads. Double bag contaminated solid waste and contact EHS (919-962-5507) to report the spill and receive proper disposal procedures.
- If a small spill occurs (non-controlled analgesic agents), absorb with absorbent pads. Double bag contaminated solid waste and submit as a hazardous material through EHS.
- If a large spill occurs notify others in the area and evacuate room immediately. Contact EHS (919-962-5507) during working hours and 911 if after hours.
Contact Information
Office: Environment, Health & Safety
Address: 1120 Estes Drive, Campus Box #1650, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-1650
Phone: 919-962-5507