What effect does moisture have in compounded sterile preparations?

Moisture plays a significant role in compounded sterile preparations, particularly in its capacity to catalyze chemical reactions. In the context of pharmaceuticals, moisture can enhance the rate of hydrolysis, which is a chemical reaction involving the breakdown of a substance when it interacts with water. This reaction can accelerate the degradation of certain drug compounds, leading to reduced efficacy and stability of the preparation.

While one might consider that moisture might inhibit microbial growth in some instances, it is generally understood that moisture can actually create a more favorable environment for microbial proliferation. Additionally, while moisture can improve drug solubility, it is the facilitation of chemical reactions through hydrolysis that is the more critical factor in understanding its impact on sterility and drug stability. Thus, the presence of moisture necessitates careful management in the preparation and storage of compounded sterile products to ensure their safety and effectiveness.