Are Compound Meds Better?

Whether as a one-off medication for an illness or part of a routine to manage long-term conditions, getting a prescription filled is fairly routine. However, for some people, using a pharmaceutical manufacturer’s standard formula or format isn’t possible. For these patients, a compounding pharmacy is a better option. These facilities are authorized to create customized formulations to address complications that might cause adverse reactions or poor medication adherence.

Compound vs standard

The biggest difference between a compounded and a standard prescription is the formulation. A standard script is the original format created by a pharmaceutical company. For traditional pharmacies, fulfilling these scripts only involves confirming how much medication to give, insurance authorization and providing the preapproved notices. Compounding pharmacies are authorized to create customized versions that might combine or adjust existing medications. Here are a few reasons to compound medication.

Difficulty taking medications

People often struggle to take medication because the flavor or format is difficult to stomach. Especially for children or the elderly, swapping pills for liquid formulas can make taking medicine easier. By using raw ingredients, standard scripts can be adapted into an easier-to-consume format. Compounding pharmacies not only make specialty formulations for people but can also fulfill veterinary scripts.

Removing allergens

Standard prescriptions are screened by government oversight agencies to ensure that the ingredients aren’t harmful to the general public. Still, some people might struggle with allergens. Many medications contain filler ingredients for formula stability, flavoring agents, or even binders to prevent solid medications from falling apart. However, some patients might have allergies to some of the more common fillers such as lactose, dyes, or gluten. Compounding pharmacies can create alternative versions that safely remove filler ingredients without reducing the efficacy of the medication.

Combining medications

Some people might need to take multiple medications. Whether for an infection or as part of a long-term care strategy, gulping down several pills daily can be frustrating. With standard prescriptions, a patient would just have to endure swallowing multiple pills or dosage cups of medication. A compounding pharmacy can help by blending those medications together if possible. Although not every prescription can be combined, customized blends that reduce the total number of pills or liquids a person must consume can improve quality of life. Not every medication is eligible for this option.

Discontinued medications

As with any product, sometimes medications might be discontinued. In some cases, pharmaceutical firms stop producing a drug simply because not enough demand exists to justify offering that medication. Likewise, sometimes pharmaceutical firms stop producing products because the exclusivity of a patent has ended, meaning that generics can be produced and sold for a fraction of the cost. Assuming a medication is suspended simply because of demand and not for health and safety reasons, a compounding pharmacist might be able to replicate the script with the right raw ingredients. This function is essential for patients who can’t take generic versions because of poor absorption or reduced efficacy.

When compounding is best

Not every person with a script is going to need a compounding pharmacy. For people who aren’t struggling with allergies, don’t struggle to take certain medication formats, or don’t need multiple medications blended, a standard prescription is sufficient. However, individuals who do suffer from the above concerns, a compounding pharmacy can help support medical needs and adherence to health regimens as outlined by physicians.