Today, there are prescription drugs available to treat pretty much anything; however, some patients may have adverse effects to specific ingredients or need a custom mix of medicines to achieve their ultimate health goals. Prescription compounding is the mixing or combining of multiple prescriptions to help patients meet these specific needs. If you think that you or a loved one could benefit from this service, here are answers to some questions you may have.

What Patients Should Know About Prescription Compounding

What are the benefits of prescription compounding?

Prescription compounding provides more customization options for patients. For example, it can be used to change the strength of a particular medication or to eliminate a specific ingredient that the patient may be allergic to. It can also be used to change the flavor or form of a medicine, which may make it easier for children or pets to take.

When is it offered?

Prescription compounding is only recommended by medical professionals when there aren’t any FDA approved drugs available to meet their needs. Often, this is due to an adverse reaction or allergy to a specific ingredient in commercially available drugs. It may also be used when patients need a different dosage or amount than what’s currently offered.

What makes it different than traditional drug manufacturing?

In traditional manufacturing, drug companies get their formulas approved by the FDA and then sell their products to pharmacies and healthcare providers who resell them to patients. Compounding doesn’t involve producing a product to resell.

It simply involves altering ingredients, so they are well suited to the needs of a specific patient. The FDA does not regulate these treatments in the same way, but state pharmacy boards do regulate the practice to ensure safety.

Who can compound prescriptions?

State boards of pharmacy approve community and hospital pharmacies to perform this service. This accreditation means they follow safety and quality standards. Patients should not attempt to mix or alter their own prescriptions, as many have active ingredients that could be dangerous when misused.

If you or a family member could benefit from prescription compounding, Pack Pharmacy can help. The Cincinnati drugstore offers a full array of over-the-counter medications, prescriptions, and first aid supplies. They also provide pharmacist consultations and specialty medications for those who may need extra care or expertise. Visit the pharmacy’s website to see a full array of options. To speak with a pharmacist, call (513) 871-7770.