For how long can refrigerated medium risk CSPs be stored in the absence of sterility tests?

The correct answer is that refrigerated medium risk compounded sterile preparations (CSPs) can be stored for up to 9 days in the absence of sterility testing. This guideline is established based on the potential for microbial growth and stability of the compounded product.

Medium risk CSPs typically involve multiple intermediate steps or the use of complex manipulations, which increases the risk of contamination. To ensure patient safety, guidelines dictate specific storage times for these preparations when sterility testing is not performed. Refrigeration slows down microbial growth and helps maintain the integrity of the active ingredients, hence, a 9-day storage limit is considered acceptable.

This aligns with recommended practices that are established in USP standards and other authoritative guidelines regarding compounding practices. Following these recommendations helps ensure that compounded sterile preparations are safe and effective for patient use.