When we explain to patients that we're a compounding pharmacy, the number one question we get is: “What is compounding?” It's easy to forget that compounding is a specialized niche in pharmacy that many patients do not encounter.
Simply, compounding is the custom preparation of medications to fit the specific needs of a patient. Instead of relying on mass-produced medications that might not work for everyone, compounding allows pharmacists to create personalized prescriptions tailored just for you.
Why Do Patients Need Compounded Medications?
There are many reasons why a commercially available medication might not be the best option for a patient. Compounding helps by:
✅ Making medications allergy-friendly – We can create formulations without fillers, dyes, preservatives, or mammal-derived ingredients, helping patients with sensitivities, including those with Alpha-Gal Syndrome.
✅ Providing custom dosages – Some patients need a strength that isn’t available in manufactured medications. Compounding allows for precise dosing to meet individual needs.
✅ Changing medication forms – If a patient has trouble swallowing pills, we can prepare liquids, troches, creams, or dissolvable tablets for easier administration.
✅ Personalizing hormone therapy – Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can be customized to support patients on their hormone journey with the right balance of hormones in a form that works best for them.
✅ Making medications easier for kids or pets – We can flavor medications for children or prepare special formulations for pets to improve compliance.
What Types of Medications Do We Compound?
At Debbie’s Family Pharmacy, we specialize in non-sterile compounding, which includes:
🌿 Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
We prepare customized capsules, creams, troches, and sublingual drops for hormone imbalances, menopause, and other hormonal concerns.
🧴 Dermatology & Skincare
From acne treatments to eczema and scar creams, we formulate skincare medications based on each patient’s needs.
💊 Pain Management
We can prepare custom pain relief creams, gels, or transdermal formulations that provide targeted relief while reducing systemic side effects.
🤧 Alpha-Gal Safe Medications
For patients with Alpha-Gal Syndrome, we research and formulate mammal-free medications, ensuring safer alternatives for those with sensitivities.
🐾 Veterinary Compounding
Pets often need custom medication forms, so we prepare flavored chewables, transdermal gels, and liquids to make treatment stress-free for both pets and owners.
Not Every Pharmacy Can Compound
Compounding is a specialized skill that requires advanced training, equipment, and expertise. Unlike traditional pharmacies that only dispense manufactured medications, compounding pharmacies like Debbie’s Family Pharmacy:
🔹 Use specialized tools such as electronic balances, ointment mills, and high-powered mixers to ensure precise formulations.
🔹 Require additional pharmacist and technician training to properly prepare custom medications.
🔹 Follow strict protocols and quality standards to ensure consistency in every batch.
Many pharmacies do not offer compounding because it requires dedicated facilities, specialized knowledge, and a commitment to individualized patient care. At Debbie’s Family Pharmacy, we take pride in being one of the few pharmacies offering these personalized solutions.
Why I Love Compounding
One of the things I love most about compounding is the opportunity to problem-solve and find unique solutions for our patients. Many people come to us after exhausting commercial medication options—frustrated, discouraged, and looking for something that actually works for them.
With compounding, we don’t just dispense a medication; we create a customized solution that puts the patient first. We take the time to understand your specific needs, collaborate with your provider, and develop a formulation that works for you.
But what I love even more is the trust we build with our patients. Through compounding, we develop relationships that go beyond a simple transaction. We listen, we adjust, and we work with you and your healthcare provider every step of the way. The focus is always on you—the patient.
Is Compounding Right for You?
If you or a loved one struggle with medications that don’t quite fit your needs—whether due to allergies, dosage limitations, or difficulty taking the available forms—compounded medications may be the answer.
📞 Have questions? Contact us today to learn more about how our compounding services can benefit you!
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