Pharmacists have been preparing drugs for patients long before manufacturing came into existence. This process is simply called "compounding." The discipline combines Art and Science and is supported by both academic endeavor and practical experience. Compounding is "the extemporaneous preparation of a special medication for a patient's unique condition pursuant to a doctor's specific formulated order (prescription)." The pharmacist's ability to make a "Tailor-made" prescription affords the physician the ability to prescribe a medication better targeted, in his/her opinion, to a patient's specific need. Contrary to what is sometimes assumed, each individual patient is different in his/her biological and chemical makeup. In the complex world of body chemistry we are all a bit different. Compounding affords the physician/pharmacist the ability to provide exceptional and very specific medicine that is more suitable and individualized for a given patients unique condition.
There are many reasons your doctor may provide you with a compounded prescription. Below are a few of those reasons:
- A dosage form (tablet vs. capsule vs. liquid) may be required or preferred by a patient where it may not exist. The pharmacist can change this dosage form.
- A Particular medication strength may not be made by the manufacturer but can be provided thru the compounding process.
- Some products have fillers or binders (inert ingredients) that cause allergic reactions to some patients. Compounding with the raw drug allows the pharmacist to NOT use those particular allergic causing materials.
- Due to low profitability of some manufactured drugs they have been removed from the market. Compounding pharmacist can provide these drugs to the patient.
- When a drug shortage occurs in the manufacturing sector the drug can be compounded temporarily until supply is restored.
- Flavoring medications "to taste" for children and adults is a common practice.
And there are many other reasons for a compounded Rx to be provided to a patient so suffice it to say the Concord Pharmacist are trained in the Art and Science of Compounding and some have acquired knowledge in special fields of compounding such as Dermatology and Hormone Replacement Therapy. All work closely with your doctor. Our pharmacists are members for Pharmacy Compounding Centers of America and other support groups to ensure the highest quality of materials and information and of the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists. These direct links and others provide a recognized source of support for both raw material and where needed, advanced information on various compounding subjects.
Some examples of various medical specialists that prescribe compounded medications are;
Dermatologist: for specific skin conditions,
Endocrinologist: for hormone replacement such as Estrogen replacement and Thyroid replacement.
Urology: for infections and erectile dysfunction
Gynecologist: hormone replacement and issues concerning pregnancies
Gastroenterologist: for anal conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures and other surrounding issues
Pain Management Specialist: for strength and dosage form adjustments used in chronic pain conditions
Concord has had the privilege of serving the needs of doctors and patients in the area of Compounding since 1979. Please feel free to contact a store near you for any of your Prescription needs.