The Handling of Hazardous Drugs

Drugs used to treat cancer, some antiviral drugs, hormone agents, and bioengineered drugs, are dangerous to pharmacists and other healthcare workers because of their toxicity. Exposure to these hazardous drugs in the course of professional practice can injure the healthcare worker. Proper precautions and care are necessary to prevent these occupational injuries. Pharmacists and pharmacy staff can appreciate the importance of handling hazardous drugs properly through a brief review of the history of hazardous drugs and the development of guidelines for their proper handling.