The process of pharmaceutical compounding involves combining and/or modifying ingredients to create a personalized medication to meet the needs of a patient. Compounding medications is especially important when commercially available products are unavailable. When creating a compounded drug, a compounding technician mixes the drugs, while being supervised by a licensed pharmacist. These medications can be dispensed in a variety of forms, including creams, gummies, ointments, suspensions, or more.
What are some reasons a medication would be compounded?
- Allergies: some patients may have an allergy to specific ingredients within a product, such as gluten or a dye
- Flavor: some patients, especially children, may find it difficult to take medication, so the addition of flavoring can improve administration and taste
- Dosage form: certain patients may require a change in the form of their medication, such as modifying tablets to a liquid, due to difficulties in swallowing or stomach upset
- Dosage: some patients may require lower or higher doses than what is commercially available
- Drug shortage: pharmacies may occasionally have medications unavailable due to challenges with transportation or manufacturing. In such cases, the national drug shortage list is regulated by the FDA, which collaborates with manufacturing companies to address the issue.
Why are some medications not eligible for compounding?
- Patent protection: medications may be protected under a patent, which would prevent unauthorized compounding and give exclusive manufacturing rights to a particular company
- Complexity: certain drugs, such as biologics, may require specialized facilities and equipment for manufacturing
- Commercially available products: compounded medications are not necessary if there is a commercially available product that can meet the patient’s needs
- Ingredient scarcity: compounding may not be possible if an ingredient is scarce or difficult to obtain
Can Preston’s compound your medication?
Preston’s Pharmacy compounds sterile and non-sterile medications, including medications for weight loss, thyroid, pain, animals, dermatology, GI issues, antibiotics, antifungals, hypertension, steroids, men & women’s health, and so much more. We also customize medications regarding ingredients, dosage form, and flavor.
If you have questions regarding compounded medications, please call (571) 341-8787 or email customer.service@prestonspharmacy.com.
