Why do some patients need compounded drugs?

There are many reasons why prescribers suggest compounded drugs.  The “one-size-fits-all” approach to medication doesn’t always meet everyone’s needs.  A growing number of people and animals have unique health needs, for them customized medications are the way to better health.  Some patients may not be able to tolerate a mass-produced, commercially available drug in its current form, the exact preparation needed may not be commercially available, or a patient may require a drug that is currently discontinued or in short supply.

Compounding pharmacists can prepare customized formulations of drugs into specially flavored liquids, topical creams, transdermal gels, suppositories, or other dosage forms suitable for patients’ unique needs, and supply medications that may be otherwise unavailable.