What is the main consequence of failing to verify drug compatibility during compounding?

Failing to verify drug compatibility during compounding primarily leads to potential adverse reactions and ineffectiveness. When two or more drugs are mixed without confirming their compatibility, there is a risk that they could chemically react in ways that either reduce their efficacy or create harmful byproducts. This can result in severe consequences for the patient, including unexpected side effects, lack of therapeutic benefit, or even serious health complications. Ensuring compatibility is crucial for maintaining patient safety and achieving the desired pharmacological effects of the medications being administered.

While increased medication costs, legal liabilities, and longer preparation times can certainly be related consequences of poor compounding practices, they are secondary to the immediate and critical concern of patient safety and the effectiveness of the therapy being provided. The primary focus in sterile compounding must always be the health outcomes for the patient, which makes the verification of drug compatibility paramount.