1000 mL IV bag with solution.

WHAT IS DEHP USED FOR IN PVC, AND WHAT ARE THE HAZARDS?

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a type of plastic used for many things, including medical equipment. PVC production can be hazardous on its own but becomes more hazardous when other chemicals are added in order to give it certain properties.1 Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a common additive called a plasticizer used in PVC. This toxic chemical can be transferred to humans.

 

The problem is that coming in contact with DEHP can have serious negative health effects in humans.1 And when disposed of, it continues to threaten the environment.1

 

The plasticizer DEHP is added to PVC to produce medical IV bags and tubing. There are hazards to DEHP exposure to men, women, children and fetuses, which include reproductive harm and risks, development risks in children’s brains and weight and risks of cancer. PVC with DEHP is also not recycled and continues to leech DEHP into landfills where it poses risks to the earth and organisms.

Reference: 1. Schettler T. Polyvinyl chloride in health care: a rationale for choosing alternatives. Health Care Without Harm. Published January 2020. Accessed April 1, 2025. https://us.noharm.org/media/4423/download?inline=1