Extemporaneous compounding practices: Case study in Thai Hospitals

Abstract

Objective: To collect and analyze information on extemporaneous compounding practices in Thai hospitals and compare stability data from previous studies and reports. Methods: This study has focused on collaborative hospitals that had been using specific extemporaneous formulations for over a year without reported adverse effects whilst also documenting stability data. This study involved data collection from three hospitals and comparing their extemporaneous preparations with additional data from academic journals and reports. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Three hospitals participated in this study. Each hospital produced a notable quantity of extemporaneous formulations; Hospitals A and B each reported 50 and 52 formulations, respectively, whereas Hospital C reported 50. These formulations span various types, including oral liquids, solids, and eye drops. This study identified several key areas of variation among the extemporaneous formulations produced by participating hospitals. These differences include storage and stability conditions, dosage forms, vehicles used, and strength of the medications. Conclusion: This study highlights significant variability in extemporaneous compounding practices across Thai hospitals. This underscores the need for standardized guidelines to ensure the consistent quality and safety of compounded medications. Establishing uniform protocols can help optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance the stability and efficacy of extemporaneously prepared medications, ultimately improving patient care in hospital settings. In addition, sharing best practices and stability data among hospitals could further refine compounding techniques and medication management.