How to Compound your Own Tamiflu Prescriptions During a Shortage
Posted by Emily Thompson on Sep 2nd 2020
Happy November! We’re entering the ‘most wonderful time of the year’ where we’ll, hopefully, enjoy meals with family and friends and social gatherings galore. Unfortunately, this season of socializing could be disrupted by another season-- flu season.
In recent years we’ve seen some of the most widely spread epidemics of the entire decade, which have led to shortages in drugs like Tamiflu, the most prescribed treatment of acute, uncomplicated influenza symptoms.
For example, last year Tamiflu sales spiked to $750 million. That’s more than double the $350 million Tamiflu cleared the year before, says Reuters. However, these figures are nothing compared to 2009’s H1N1 pandemic. From April 2009-April 2010, somewhere between 40-89 million flu cases were reported in the US, according to the CDC, and Tamiflu sales crossed the 3 billion mark!
The good news is that if your pharmacy is unable to obtain the commercially manufactured Tamiflu oral suspension, you can actually compound your own oral suspension using the Tamiflu capsules. Note that the new strength is now 6mg/ml as opposed to the traditional 15mg/ml. This change was instated in 2011, so some pharmacy techs might not be aware.
It’s also important to remember that there are only three approved vehicles for this compound: Humco Cherry Syrup, Ora-Sweet SF (sugar-free), and simple syrup.
After you have these secured, follow the link to this PDF provided by gene.com for more information on compounding formulas, dosages, procedures, and more (see pages 6-8).
Stocking up before a major outbreak is the best way to ensure your pharmacy is fully prepared. Believe us your patients will thank you for it!
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