You might have heard the term ‘sterile compounding’ before. Many have, but they don’t feel the need to look into it further.
So what is sterile compounding?
Compounding is the practice of combining medications, also referred to as active ingredients, with inactive ingredients to create personalised medications that can be adapted to the needs of each individual. There are two kinds of compounding preparations: non-sterile and sterile preparations.
Sterile compounding is most commonly used in the preparation of medications where the route of administration is more intrusive—such as eye drops, injections, and intravenous medications—to avoid infection. For these medications, the presence of even a trace of bacteria could lead to health risks.
What is a non sterile compounding pharmacy?
Let’s first discuss what a non sterile compounding pharmacy isn’t. It does not mean that medication is created in a non sterile environment that could render it unsafe. It simply means that there is a lower risk of infection to the user, even if the medication is prepared in a non sterile environment. Non sterile medications are prepared in a clean environment, though not necessarily free from microorganisms. The products are still very safe to use.
Examples include:
- Sustained-release oral products
- Liquids
- Topical gels, lotions, ointments, creams, and foams
- Medicated shampoos
- Medicated lip balms
- Dissolving troches and lollipops
When would you need sterile compounding services?
If you are given a prescription that requires that the medication be prepared in a bacteria-free environment, and the medication is not commercially available in a community pharmacy, then it’s best to look for a reliable compounding pharmacy near you.
Where can I find a reliable sterile compounding pharmacy?
Since 2006, PharmacySmart Compounding has been dedicated to helping you and your family gain access to the highest quality medicines with exceptional and personalised care.
As one of the very few Melbourne compounding pharmacies with a state-of-the-art sterile lab, we only use premium quality materials, processes and facilities built to Australian standards. Enjoy peace of mind that your medicine will be produced to the exact specifications that your practitioner ordered for you.