Compounding Intrathecal Medications
Author(s): Vidrine Eric
Issue: Jan/Feb 2000 - Compounding for Pain Management
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Page(s): 24-25
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Abstract: More and more physicians are using totally implantable ambulatory infusion pumps to deliver various medications to the intrathecal space. With the growing popularity of these implantable devices to treat chronic pain and spasticity, compounding pharmacists are being called on more often to customize the medications that best suit each patient’s needs. The author discusses sterility, tonicity, quality control and packaging and provides a table with E values for calculating volumes of water for isotonicity. He concludes that as intrathecal therapy becomes more individualized and complex, compounding pharmacists will continue to play an important role in customizing these medications. With proper attention, compounding pharmacists can continue to make a positive impact in this growing field.
Related Keywords: bupivacaine, compounding pharmacist, fentanyl, hydromorphine, implantable ambulatory infusion pump, intrathecal, isotonic, morphine, packaging, pump, quality control, sterility, tonicity
Related Categories: PAIN MANAGEMENT, STABILITIES, COMPATIBILITIES, STERILE PREPARATIONS