Closed Transfer Systems for Hazardous Drugs Preparing for Change as New Standards Approach

(Amherst, NH) – In the specialized area of oncology, the use of substances that can harm as well as benefit is common. The danger extends to hospital pharmacy compounders and caregivers, as well as the patient. A specialized area of drug handling systems known as closed system transfer is comprised of a small number of devices that are designed to protect workers and patients by limiting exposure to harmful substances during the creation and administration of these drugs. New standards and guidelines will increase the adoption rate of this class of devices, which will grow at CAGR of 11 percent over the next eight years.

Closed system transfer device (CSTD) technology is founded in the need to protect patients and caregivers from exposure to hazardous drugs. The risks of occupational exposure to hazardous drugs have been known since the 1970s. Since 1980, guidance documents from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have provided advice to healthcare providers who manage these agents, but adoption has not always been consistent or comprehensive. On February 1, 2016, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) General Chapter 800: “Hazardous Drugs: Handling in Healthcare Settings” was published, and will provide the first enforceable standards concerning hazardous drugs beginning on July 1, 2018.

The primary application for CSTDs is oncology therapeutics, a disease sector that still relies heavily on hazardous substances, in spite of the increasing promise of targeted antibody treatments based on tumor-specific biomarkers. Hazardous drugs include neoplastic drugs, cytotoxic drugs such as alkylating agents and antimetabolites, and drugs that represent reproductive risk. These drugs are believed to represent a significant occupational exposure risk for hospital pharmacy and infusion center personnel.

Although CSTDs do not guarantee 100% protection, they provide significantly more of it than without them. Many studies have been done to evaluate the use of a CSTD. These studies include assessing fluid and vapor leakage during preparation and administration, the impact of CSTDs on environmental contamination and personnel exposure, and the impact of CSTDs on workflow and staffing.

Closed system transfer devices are detailed in a new and comprehensive report researched and written by Greystone Research Associates. Closed System Drug Transfer Devices includes analysis of closed system transfer systems, system design factors, regulatory and industry standards, market data and forecasts, and profiles of market participants.

More information is available at http://www.greystoneassociates.org



Source: Greystone Research Associates

About Greystone

Greystone Research Associates is a medical technology consulting firm focused on the areas of medical market strategy, product commercialization, venture development, and market research. We assist medical and healthcare market participants in achieving their business objectives through the creation of detailed development strategies, product commercialization programs, and comprehensive market and technology research and analysis. Our market research publications are designed, researched and written to provide timely and insightful information and data on focused market segments, with the aim of providing market participants with the essential knowledge to refine and execute their marketing plans and financial targets.

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Greystone Research Associates
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www.greystoneassociates.org

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