Compounding Is An Essential Service For Some Patients
Fulfilling prescriptions is a task directly associated with pharmacies. From major retail chains to corner pharmacies serving small neighborhoods, this is the primary method by which most people receive prescription medications. However, some individuals may need enhanced services that the average pharmacy can’t provide. When a person has a unique concern and can’t consume a medication in the way that the FDA-approved formulation was manufactured, a compounding pharmacist may be a smart alternative.
Understanding compound pharmacies
Compound pharmacies are essentially specialists, as compounding isn't an activity all pharmacies support. The label refers to when a pharmacist combines or adjusts medications to create a modified variant that still meets a patient's needs but is different from the original manufactured version. Typically, compounding will focus on customizing formats or dosages so that patients can more easily take medications. Below are a few of the most common reasons for a person to visit a compound pharmacist instead of a traditional pharmacy.
Difficulty taking medications
Many people are familiar with the agony of trying to swallow a massive pill or gagging on the flavor of cough syrup. With over-the-counter (OTC) medications, the remedy is easy since a person can go to the store and pick an alternative option. However, with prescription medications, this isn't as easy. If a person has trouble swallowing or a child can't stomach the flavor of the standard prescription, a compounding pharmacy can modify the formula. Typically, a specialist can reformulate the FDA-approved medication into an alternative version that's easier to consume. Note that this service can sometimes be performed for pet prescriptions.
Preventing allergic reactions
Most prescription medications contain filler ingredients. These are usually necessary additives that may preserve potency, extend shelf life, or simply make a product taste better or look good. Yet filler ingredients can also be irritants such as lactose, gluten, or even dyes, which are all approved by the FDA but can be problematic for an individual who is allergic. In this scenario, a doctor may recommend that a patient have the prescription filled at a compounding pharmacy where a pharmacist can rely on raw ingredients to create the medication without the triggering agents.
Combine medications
A common complaint for individuals with multiple prescriptions is the irritation of having to consume multiple medications simultaneously. While the occasional multi-pill or liquid medication consumption is annoying but temporary, the same can't be said for people with long-term treatment plans. A compounding pharmacist may be able to help by combining multiple prescriptions into a single dosage. Doing so reduces the risk of a patient forgetting to take necessary medication and speeds up the dosage process. People should know, however, that not all medications can be safely combined. So, if combining prescriptions is a goal, consider speaking with a healthcare professional to understand the risks and limitations.
When specific formulations are necessary
Some people may respond better to generic or alternative versions of a prescription compared to the original patented name brand. Whether a medication is discontinued or a specific version is required that's not easily accessible, a compounding pharmacy is a smart resource in this scenario. The location usually has the raw components available to create a customized, fresh formula that is safe to consume while still fulfilling a patient's prescription.
Serving a greater need with compounding
Compounding pharmacies fill a void that the traditional pharmacist can't provide. When a patient needs customized prescriptions, such as removing fillers or combining medications, a compounding pharmacy is an essential source for this task.
