When a compounding pharmacy conducts a quarterly audit, must active powders be weighed each time?

When a compounding pharmacy conducts a quarterly audit, the requirement is that active powders do not need to be weighed each time if the initial weight can be tracked. This approach allows the pharmacy to maintain accuracy and compliance without the need for redundant weighing. By documenting the initial weight and then using that record as a reference, the pharmacy can efficiently monitor the amounts of the compounds being used while minimizing the potential for human error associated with repetitive weighing.

Tracking the initial weight ensures that any discrepancies can be addressed during audits or quality checks, while also aligning with efficient pharmacy practices. Furthermore, this method can streamline workflow, allowing pharmacists to focus on other necessary aspects of compounding and patient care without constantly reweighing substances that have already been accurately measured. This is particularly important in a busy compounding environment, where time and resource management are crucial.

In light of state laws and regulations, pharmacists should always ensure compliance with any specific guidelines that govern their practice. However, generally, if the tracking system is robust and clearly documented, continuous weighing may not be necessary.