Synopsis
Utilizing the services of an outsourced compounder has become increasingly common in hospital pharmacy practice. According to Pharmacy Purchasing & Products’ 2018 State of Pharmacy Compounding survey, three-quarters of all facilities outsource at least some portion of their compounded preparations.1 In recent years, the severity and persistence of drug shortages has been one factor driving this trend. When choosing a 503B outsourcing partner, performing the requisite due diligence is critical to ensuring the chosen vendor operates safely and in compliance with all regulations and requirements. Thus, hospital pharmacies must develop and implement vendor selection guidelines for procuring outsourced compounded sterile preparations (CSPs).
