What Is A Compound Pharmacy?

Compounding is a unique pharmaceutical activity performed by licensed pharmacists. Compounding requires pharmacists to create a drug to meet the particular needs of a patient. Medication is produced in smaller doses for different medical ailments like psoriasis. Pharmacists use compounding to create specially-formulated ointments, pills, and creams for patients. Compound pharmacies use specialized equipment and train pharmacists to develop these drugs.

Understanding psoriasis

Psoriasis is a challenging disease to treat because there is no cure. Therefore, patients with the illness must implement specific lifestyle changes and use medications to manage the skin condition. A compound pharmacy may be able to create special ointments or creams to keep a patient’s psoriasis under control. These pharmacists can combine medications or use prescription-strength doses of ingredients to formulate creams that patients cannot get anywhere else.

Topical ingredients

Doctors prescribe a few different treatments to patients with psoriasis. These include:

• Alpha-hydroxy acid
• Salicylic acid
• Coal tar
• Corticosteroids
• Retinoids
• Tacrolimus
• Cyclosporine

Alpha hydroxy acid and salicylic acid are chemical exfoliants used to dissolve the first layer of skin gently. After using one of these acids, corticosteroids can be applied to reduce itching and inflammation. Retinoids help with cell growth and are often combined with corticosteroids for psoriasis treatments. Coal tar, a by-product of coal, is also combined with steroids to produce topical therapies for psoriasis. Cyclosporine and tacrolimus are immunosuppressants that reduce inflammation related to psoriasis. A compound pharmacy would be able to combine these medications to create a unique treatment for those with psoriasis.

Specialized treatment options

Psoriasis is a result of a compromised immune system, so immunosuppressants are conventional treatments used for this disease. Psoriasis can appear as red dots or lesions on the body, pus-filled blisters, or red patches on the skin. Depending on the type and severity of psoriasis, patients may have to use several different creams or specialized treatments. A compound pharmacy stocked with the appropriate dermatology products and staffed with pharmacists that thoroughly understand psoriasis is a valuable resource.

Where can I find a compound pharmacy?

According to the American Pharmacists Association, there are currently 7,500 pharmacies nationwide that specialize in compounding. To start a search for a compounding pharmacy, consult a primary care physician. A physician will be able to provide additional information about compounding and pharmacies.