ThinkNext: International Seminar 2024 (ThinkNext: ISTX24), held October 17 - 19 in Houston, Texas, was a huge success with well over 500 rockstar compounders from around the world. We’re sharing seminar highlights and memorable takeaways that make PCCA members return year after year.

The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) General Chapter 800 addresses the handling of hazardous drugs (HDs) to minimize the risk of exposure to patients, health care workers and the environment. It became compendially applicable in November 2023. USP 800 contains some key elements that specifically apply to employee safety and HD containment. Section 16, for example, discusses managing HD spills and retaining spill kits on site. This article addresses HD spills that occur in a compounding pharmacy; however, it can be adapted for handling of non-HD chemical spills as well.

As one of the most studied synthetic drugs in modern history, quinacrine HCI was first used as an antimalarial and later to treat rheumatic skin diseases, including lupus. With May designated as Lupus Awareness month, learn more about quinacrine HCI and the twists and turns of its storied past.

Compounding pharmacists are committed to helping their patients live healthier, better lives —and key to this is ensuring their patients have continuing access to lawfully prescribed, personalized medications tailored to their individual needs.

At PCCA, we proudly partner with our members to support the unique needs of your patients and prescribers through the science of compounding. We also recognize the importance of effectively communicating the value of compounded medications. As we navigate this path, it is crucial to adhere to established guidelines and embrace best practices in promoting your compounded medications.

On November 1, 2023, revisions to USP Chapter 795 and Chapter 797 became official and made USP 800 compendially applicable and potentially enforceable. However, other regulatory agencies — including state boards of pharmacy and the FDA — may impact whether USP 800 is enforceable in your pharmacy.

ThinkNext: International Seminar 2023 (ThinkNext: ISTX23) was a huge success, attended by more than 400 global participants. We’re reviewing the pearls — highlights of key takeaways — from the event to rekindle memories and, for those who missed attending, inspire your participation next year.

Due to pending USP updates that are effective on November 1, 2023, we’re reposting our January Blog, which reviews how a modular compounding cleanroom can meet evolving regulatory requirements and standards.

Review the criteria for selecting an FDA-approved API to safeguard your patients and your compounding pharmacy.

Read why Kayla Valigura, PharmD candidate and 2022 PCCA Institute Scholarship award winner, wants your help in acting on something near and dear to her heart.