Published on: 16 August 2023

Use of bottle bungs to measure liquid controlled drugs (CDs)

All CD liquids must be measured using an oral/enteral syringe which is an appropriate size for the dose being administered.  A bottle bung must be inserted in the bottle when the bottle is first opened and remain in the bottle during its use.

This is to provide a barrier from using standard intravenous syringes as they are not compatible with the bungs.  It also improves accuracy leading to fewer discrepancies.

The bung selected must fit the bottle securely.  The information below shows the bungs which are recommended and can be ordered via top up.  These will fit morphine solution, oxycodone liquid and methadone solution.

 The photograph below shows how the bung should be used.  The bottle top will fit over the bung – the bung should not be removed after the dose has been withdrawn.

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