What is compounding?
Compounding is a way for physicians and veterinarians to order individualized medications for their patients.
Compounding is the art of mixing drugs and other ingredients to create customized medications.
What dosage forms can be compounded?
At a Stafford Pharmacy we can create a wide variety of products including:
- Oral Liquids (suspensions/solutions)
- Capsules
- Topical creams and gels
- Suppositories (rectal/vaginal)
- Eye drops
- Intravenous antibiotics and other sterile products
Why might you require a compounded medication?
There are many instances that a medication may need to be compounded. For animals, the appropriate dosage may not be commercially available. If it is available, it may not be in a form the animal will take which may simply mean the change to a more appropriate flavour for your companion animal. At our Stafford Pharmacy & Home Healthcare we can flavour medications for animals so that it will make giving them their medications easier!
For humans, there are many reasons for the preparation of a custom dosage form. There may be no commercially available product, or the product may not be available in the desired strength or dosage form. For example, some people have difficulties swallowing, compounding a medication that is normally available only in a tablet into a liquid. There are many reasons other reasons you may require a compounded prescription as well!
Do I need a prescription for a compounded medication?
Yes. A medication cannot be compounded for you or your animal without a prescription from your physician or veterinarian. The prescription must specify the strength/dose and instructions for use.
How long does it take to prepare a compounded prescription?
Typically we require 24-48 hours to prepare a compounded prescription. However, in emergency situations this timeline is modified.
Are compounds covered by my insurance plan?
Depending on your insurance plan, the majority of compounded medications should be covered. The only plans we are able to bill online to are Alberta Blue Cross and Social Services. For all other plans, you must submit your receipt in order to receive reimbursement for your compounded products.
For additional information about compounding as well as some specifics about the dosage forms we are currently preparing, visit our main compounding introductory page. <<About Compounding>>