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Sterile Compounding

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What is Sterile Compounding?

Sterile compounding is the process of preparing medications in a sterile environment to meet the specific needs of patients.

This environment is critical because these medications bypass the body’s natural defenses. They are often injected or inserted directly into the bloodstream.

Specialized equipment, such as hoods and air filters, are needed to maintain a clean and sterile environment. Pharmacy technicians must follow strict guidelines and procedures to ensure the safety and efficacy of the medications they produce.

Sterile compounding is vital in providing patients with personalized medication options tailored to their unique healthcare needs.

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Sterile Compounding vs Non-Sterile Compounding

Non-sterile compounding is still a very clean process. Pharmacy technicians wear protective garb, masks, and gloves and must routinely clean their compounding stations.

Any bacteria or microorganisms that manage to bypass our non-sterile compounding process are no different from what we encounter daily. The medication’s administration method allows our body’s robust natural defenses to neutralize any potential threat.

Non-sterile compounding includes dosage forms such as ingestible medications (capsules, troches, liquid) and topical medications (creams, ointments, gels).

When medications bypass our body’s natural defenses, they must be compounded in a sterile environment. Extra steps and precautions are needed to ensure the sterility of the medications.

These medications are prepared free of bacteria and other potentially harmful microorganisms our body typically eliminates.

Both sterile and non-sterile compounding play crucial roles in healthcare. They are essential in providing patients with customized medications that cater to their specific needs.

Phenylephrine Eye Drops

Common Sterile Medications

Trimix Injections for ED

Trimix is a mixture of 3 ED medications. They are injected directly into the penis in order to help develop an erection firm enough for sex.

The direct injection means it needs to be compounded in a sterile environment.

Phenylephrine Eye Drops

Eye drops must be compounded in a sterile environment because they are applied directly to the eye.

Phenylephrine helps patients with post-operative inflammation.

It helps manage fluids in the eyes by producing less and draining more.

Testosterone Injections

People who require testosterone supplementation may turn to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to help increase their levels.

This form of testosterone is commonly used as an injectable because it provides the highest bioavailability.

Can I Use Trimix Every Day

Maintaining a Sterile Lab

Maintaining a sterile lab requires meticulous effort. Our pharmacy diligently monitors daily air pressure changes, temperature, and humidity levels.

Additionally, the sterile room undergoes certification every six months to meet stringent cleanliness standards.

Every staff member entering the room must pass a recertification test, which includes three different assessments:
  • Media fill test: ensures we are filtering compounds properly.
  • Fingertip test: ensures we properly garb when entering the lab.
  • Multiple-choice test: ensures aseptic technique and rules and regulations are remembered.

Our sterile lab undergoes thorough monthly cleaning with bleach and sterile alcohol, ensuring all surfaces from ceiling to floor are properly wiped down to maintain a sterile environment.

Maintaining a Sterile Lab

The Sterile Compounding Process

Compounding in a sterile lab requires rigorous adherence to cleanliness protocols to ensure the highest quality of products.

Before compounding begins, pharmacy technicians meticulously follow a series of steps:
  1. Monitor and record the lab’s pressure, temperature, and humidity levels.
  2. Wash hands thoroughly using a surgical scrub.
  3. Dress in garb from “dirtiest to cleanest,” including shoe covers, a hair net, a mask, and safety goggles.
  4. Rewash hands with iodine scrub, ensuring water runs down the arms to avoid contaminating the hands.
  5. Dry each arm separately with a lint-free towel.
  6. Spray down any items entering the lab with alcohol.
  7. Apply sterile hand sanitizer to the elbow before wearing gloves according to strict guidelines for maintaining sterility.
  8. Wear coveralls without touching the floor and ensure only the inside of the suit is handled to maintain sterility.
  9. Finally, sterilize gloves with alcohol and wipe down all surfaces before beginning compounding.

An extensive amount of care must be taken when compounding sterile compounds.

The Sterile Compounding Process
Green Leaf

Contact Us for Sterile Compounds

We understand that each patient has unique healthcare needs that may not be met by commercially available medications.

Whether you require medications free of preservatives or are allergic to certain ingredients, our team of expert pharmacists can prepare customized medications that fit your requirements.

Please get in touch with us today to learn how sterile compounding can benefit you and discuss your healthcare needs.

Our team is always available to answer any questions and provide personalized guidance on the best treatment options for your specific condition.

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201 University Blvd. #105 Denver, CO 80206
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DISCLAIMER: A prescription from a licensed practitioner is required for compounded medications.

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