What occurs when two drugs react and alter one another's stability or effectiveness?

When two drugs react and alter one another's stability or effectiveness, this is referred to as chemical incompatibility. Chemical incompatibility occurs when two substances undergo a chemical reaction that changes their chemical composition, potentially leading to the formation of harmful by-products, deterioration of drug efficacy, or even the development of toxic substances. This can significantly impact the safety and effectiveness of the compounded preparation, and it is crucial for a sterile preparation technician to recognize such incompatibilities to ensure patient safety.

Therapeutic incompatibility, while related, refers more to a situation where the effectiveness of a drug is diminished or altered due to the interaction with another drug without necessarily causing a chemical change. Physical incompatibility involves physical changes, such as precipitation, that can occur when two substances are mixed, but it does not indicate a chemical reaction.

Understanding the differences between these types of incompatibilities is essential for a CSPT to prevent adverse reactions that can compromise patient care.