What is a Compounding Pharmacy?

pharmacist holding pill bottles in palm
March 12, 2024

Compounding pharmacies are very different from traditional “big box stores” for several reasons. Our locally-owned and family-operated independent pharmacy goes beyond filling prescriptions by offering customized treatments and unique solutions for a variety of health needs. If you are seeking answers to questions like, What is a compounding pharmacy? and how it could benefit you, then keep reading!

What is compounding?

compounding pharmacy lab

The term “compounding” refers to the art and science of creating custom formulas of medications from base ingredients rather than a pre-mixed formula. Retail pharmacies can only fill prescriptions from the traditionally manufactured doses of medicines, but a compounding pharmacy can prepare a personalized dosage strength that is adjusted to a patient’s specific needs. A compounding pharmacist is trained and accredited, using a state-of-the-art, sterile lab and high-quality ingredients.

What are the benefits of a compounded medication?

Benefit #1: Access to unavailable or discontinued meds

Have you ever been frustrated by a retail pharmacy not having your medication in stock? With a compounding pharmacy, you don’t have to worry about us not having your prescription since we have all the base ingredients to make the drug in our lab.

Benefit #2: Many easy-to-swallow medication forms

Besides customizing the dose, one of the most common reasons for compounding is to alter the form itself. Many struggle to swallow pills, so we offer cream and liquid preparations, as well as dissolvable tablets and many other unique options for adults, children, and pets.

Benefit #3: Avoid allergens, preservatives, and irritants

Not only can vegetarian and vegan individuals get medications without unwanted ingredients at our local compounding pharmacy, but we can also remove preservatives, sulfates, gluten, lactose, sugar, alcohol, and other ingredients from medication, ensuring you don’t encounter negative side effects.

What can our compounding pharmacy do for you?

We have answered, What is a compounding pharmacy, and how can it benefit you. Now, take a look at how our compounding services can be applied to several aspects of your health, including:

  • Pain Management– We can make topical pain creams for those with neuropathic or chronic pain conditions.
  • Hormone Therapy– Whether you are struggling with hair loss and erectile dysfunction or hot flashes due to menopause, bioidentical hormone therapy can help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
  • Adrenal / Thyroid Dysfunction– A thyroid imbalance can disrupt many of your body’s functions and processes, and compounded thyroid medications can restore balance and improve your symptoms.
  • Dermatology– From acne and rosacea to eczema and psoriasis, we can help you find a solution to your skin health concerns.
  • Dentistry– We can make oral sprays and rinses for mouth ulcers, chemotherapy-induced stomatitis, and more.
  • Pediatrics– Our compounding pharmacists can add natural flavorings to liquid preparations to make medication administration easier for you and your child.
  • Veterinary– Compounding is available for pet prescriptions, too; reduce the stress of giving your pet their medication with a tasty chewable treat they will devour in seconds!

various forms of medications

No matter what type of medication you need, our compounding experts will help you find the best solution that provides effective results. Not sure if we can accommodate your preferences or have questions about what we do– simply ask! Most likely, we can work with you and your doctor and create a customized medication that is right for you.

So, if you have ever wondered What is a compounding pharmacy? Now you know the answer! Learn more about our compounding pharmacy in Mason City Iowa, and as always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our compounding experts and let us know how we can help!

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