What is the maximum beyond use date for compounded aqueous-based topicals?

For compounded aqueous-based topicals, the maximum beyond-use date is typically set at 30 days. This is due to the potential for microbial growth and chemical stability, which is limited in aqueous solutions compared to non-aqueous compounds.

Beyond-use dates are established to ensure patient safety by minimizing the risk of contamination and degradation of the compounded medication. For aqueous topical preparations, which can support the growth of bacteria and fungi, a shorter beyond-use date like 30 days helps ensure that the product remains safe and effective throughout its use.

Other potential durations, such as 14 days, may apply to different scenarios of compounding, while options like 60 days or 90 days exceed the recommended period for aqueous bases and do not account for the stability concerns associated with these types of compounds. Therefore, the standard of 30 days balances safety with the practical usage of compounded medications.