Topic overview

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The principles of compounding connect regulatory expectations with practical controls throughout preparation. The topic introduces USP standards for non-sterile, sterile, and hazardous-drug compounding, alongside the need for suitable premises and calibrated equipment. It distinguishes the master formulation record, which sets out a validated preparation method, from the compounding record, which documents each batch. Careful calculations and suitable ingredient grades support accurate, reproducible preparations. Stability and compatibility considerations, techniques such as geometric dilution and levigation, and appropriate measurement help promote uniformity. The lesson also addresses beyond-use dating, quality control, labelling, cleaning, environmental monitoring, and patient communication as parts of responsible practice.