How should our practice handle beyond-use dates on Verra compounded prescriptions?

The beyond-use date, or BUD, is the date or time after which a compounded medication must not be used. It depends on factors such as the formulation, preparation method, packaging, and storage conditions. It is not interchangeable with a manufacturer's expiration date on a commercially made drug.

Follow the dispensing pharmacy's label for both the BUD and storage. Some products may also have a shorter use period after opening or first puncture. Ask the pharmacist which limit applies, and do not extend a date based on how the medication looks or smells.

If a shipment is delayed, stored incorrectly, or has an unclear label, set it aside and contact the pharmacy before use. Ask for disposal instructions when a medication is past its allowed use period. Do not relabel it with a later date. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for one patient and are not FDA-approved. Practices should not assume that different formulations or separate fills share the same BUD.