The majority of people rely on standard drugs store to get prescribed medications. While these drug stores provide an immediate solution for the treatment of the common cold, flu, and pain, they only deal in commercially manufactured medication. Retail pharmacies provide drugs in “one size fits all” packages. These pre-manufactured drugs in standard dosages suit the needs of the masses but not every individual is the same. It’s easier for both doctors and patients to get medication readily available at stores. But sometimes, these standard formulas fail to meet the specific health needs of a patient. So, what options do these patients have?
Billions of people worldwide have different health needs that major pharmaceutical companies can’t accommodate. The drugs manufactured on a large-scale often contain certain ingredients that don’t suit some patients. When these commercial drugs available at retail pharmacies fail to meet the health needs of a patient, the best available option is compounding pharmacies. Compounding pharmacies provide unique solutions for prescription demands that cannot be met at a retail pharmacy. A compounding pharmacy provides a variety of services tailored to meet the needs of the individual patient, including alternative dosage forms and preparations without additives.
Compounding Medication & Its Benefits
A compounding pharmacy is a specialized pharmacy engaged in preparing medications prescribed by doctors. These pharmacies create medications for patients who are unable to use commercially accessible medications. Compounded drugs are best suited for people with hypoallergenic sensitivities or for children who require a lower dosage. These tailored medications are prepared by licensed pharmacists to ensure that they are correctly made and tailored to the patient’s individual needs. Compared to retail pharmacies, compound pharmacies provide a range of benefits such as:
1. Personalized Medication
Retail pharmacies sell pre-packed drugs in conventional dosages such as 50mg, 100mg, 250mg, 300mg, 400mg, and 500mg. However, some patients need medicines in lower or higher dosages. Your doctor may recommend a lower dosage than the smallest accessible on the market or a higher maximum dosage. In such a case, you could be forced to divide the pill or tablet into pieces to reach the specified amount. Compounding pharmacy can eliminate this issue by creating personalized medication in dosage that is not commercially available. Moreover, patients who suffer from mouth sores or throat pain may find it hard to take tablets. Compounding pharmacists can create liquid medication or a topical cream to improve consumption. Compounding aim to personalize medication to improve treatment outcomes.
2. Prevent Allergic Reactions
Some ingredients in medication may trigger allergic reactions. Patients who are sensitive to lactose, colors, alcohol, sugar, or gluten, may have unpleasant reactions when taking some drugs. Also, preservatives and fillers found in commercially available medications may potentially trigger adverse responses. Compounding addresses this issue by removing problematic substances while still retaining the necessary components to adequately treat the patient. It helps in making medication safe and treatment more effective.
3. Convenience
Medications in liquid form are often bitter in taste. Whether the medication is in the form of a large pill or bitter-tasting syrup, compounding can make it convenient to consume. It improves the palatability of drugs which is crucial for encouraging patient adherence to their course of treatment. Most active pharmaceutical compounds have repulsive taste qualities that can make therapy uncomfortable. Compounding pharmacists can add flavor to medication to increase consumption by patients, such as youngsters, the elderly, or pets. They can also add two or more medications to make it easy to take all drugs without forgetting.
