Pharmacy compounding is the art and science of preparing customized medications for patients. Its practice dates back to the origins of pharmacy. It declined in the 1950s and ‘60s as the pharmacist’s role quickly changed from a preparer of medications to a dispenser of mass-manufactured products. However, this “one-size-fits-all” approach to medication meant that some patients’ needs were unmet. Within the last few decades, compounding has experienced a renaissance, as modern technology, innovative techniques and new research have allowed more pharmacists to customize medications to meet a patient’s unique needs.

HOW DOES COMPOUNDING BENEFIT ME?

Working with your health care provider, a compounding pharmacist can: 

• Alter the form of your medication to make it easier to use or ingest 

• Add flavor to your medication to make it more palatable

 • Adjust the strength of your medication so that it meets your needs 

• Combine medications into one, easy-to-use form 

• In some cases, formulate medications that are no longer manufactured commercially

DOES COMPOUNDING SOUND RIGHT FOR YOU?

Ask your health care provider or pharmacist about compounded medications today.