What is the expiration date for aqueous solutions prepared in a pharmacy?

The expiration date for aqueous solutions prepared in a pharmacy is no more than 14 days at cool temperatures, which aligns with the guidelines for the stability of compounded sterile preparations. Aqueous solutions, which are solutions where water is the solvent, have a higher risk of microbial growth compared to non-aqueous preparations. Therefore, it is essential to minimize the time these solutions are stored.

In a pharmacy setting, "cool temperature" typically refers to temperatures between 2°C and 8°C (36°F to 46°F), which helps preserve the integrity of the preparations for a longer duration. The 14-day timeframe is set to ensure safety and efficacy, as prolonged storage can lead to degradation of the active ingredients and a higher risk of contamination.

This timeframe is critical in compounding pharmacy practices. While some sterile preparations may have longer expiration dates under specific conditions, aqueous solutions should ideally not exceed these limits to safeguard patient health.