We manufacture the feeding tubes using medical grade materials to minimize the risk of interactions with test compounds. The tube is polypropylene, the same material used to make plastic syringes. The soft elastomer tip is designed to minimize trauma to the esophagus and to prevent inadvertent placement in the trachea.

Available in boxes of 250 pieces (50 sterile pouches of 5), or smaller boxes of 50 pieces.

Proper restraint and dosing technique are critical for success, and the technique with flexible tubes is different from rigid tubes; see the Guide to Oral Gavage for Mice and Rats for assistance.

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Features and Benefits

• Flexible tube and soft tip to minimize trauma
• Disposable - no cleaning and no risk of residual compound
• Transparent to see compound delivery
• Faster to train new technicians
• Available in a variety of diameters and lengths (request a free sample pack to find out what works best for you)

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FAQ

What are Instech Polypropylene Feeding Tubes used for?

Instech polypropylene feeding tubes are used for oral gavage — the direct delivery of compounds, drugs, or nutrients into the stomach of mice and rats. They are designed for accurate dosing in preclinical pharmacology, toxicology, and nutrition studies.

Why are Instech feeding tubes described as safer than alternatives?

The tubes are manufactured from flexible medical-grade polypropylene with a soft ball tip, which reduces the risk of esophageal trauma during intubation compared with rigid metal gavage needles. The disposable design also eliminates cross-contamination risk between animals.

Are Instech feeding tubes reusable or single-use?

Instech polypropylene feeding tubes are designed as single-use disposables. This removes the need for cleaning between uses and eliminates the risk of residual compound carryover between animals, which is especially important in pharmacokinetic and toxicology studies.

Is technical support for Instech Feeding Tubes available in Israel?

Yes. NBT Ltd distributes Instech products in Israel and provides full local technical support and guidance for oral gavage procedures in rodents.