What does "beyond-use date" (BUD) indicate?

The beyond-use date (BUD) is a critical aspect of sterile compounding that signifies the last date on which a compounded sterile preparation can be used without compromising safety or effectiveness. It is determined based on various factors, including the nature of the compounded product, storage conditions, and the type of preparation.

Choosing the correct answer highlights the importance of patient safety, as using a preparation beyond its BUD may increase the risk of contamination, decreased potency, or adverse effects. The BUD helps ensure that compounded preparations are used within a timeframe that guarantees their integrity and intended therapeutic effect.

In sterile compounding, the BUD must be clearly indicated on the label of the preparation and is based on guidelines set forth by USP 797, which aims to reduce the risk of infections and ensure quality in compounding practices.