Compounding

Pharmacists are health practitioners educated and skilled in the science of compounding medications. Compounding can range from non-sterile products for topical use to more specialized products for intravenous solutions or ophthalmic preparations, which require proper aseptic technique for sterile preparation. In every instance, it is necessary to have the knowledge, skills and appropriate facilities needed to ensure that products are prepared in a non-contaminated environment, free of particulate matter.

Non-Sterile

The College has adopted the Model Standards for Pharmacy Compounding of Non-Sterile Preparations and the accompanying guidance document. This was approved by Council in December 2017.

On December 10th, 2018, Council approved a three-phased approach for the implementation of the standards. Implementation priorities and timelines for completion of each phase are:

• Phase 1: January 1, 2020 – Assessing Risks and Gaps
• Phase 2: July 1, 2020 – Personnel Training and Quality Assurance
• Phase 3: January 1, 2021 – Facilities and Equipment

Read more on the Non-Sterile Compounding Key Initiative page. The College has also produced a Non-Sterile Compounding Standards – Self Assessment Criteria document.

Sterile

In September 2016, Council adopted the Model Standards for Non-hazardous Sterile Preparations (NAPRA, 2016) and the Model Standards for Pharmacy Compounding of Hazardous Sterile Preparations (NAPRA, 2016) and approved implementation by January 1, 2019.

• Model Standards for Pharmacy Compounding of Non-hazardous Sterile Preparations (NAPRA)
• Model Standards for Pharmacy Compounding of Hazardous Sterile Preparations (NAPRA)

For more information about preparing for implementation of the standards, please visit the Sterile Compounding Key Initiative page.