Compounding is the art and science of creating custom medications. Compounding medication is an often unknown yet integral part of the practice of pharmacy. Compounded medications are prescribed by a physician, veterinarian, or other legally authorized prescribers. Compounded medications are individualized for each patient by a specially trained pharmacist for unique situations, such as:
- When a child needs a smaller dose of a medicine that is only available commercially at larger doses or needs a medication made into a liquid that is only available in a capsule or tablet.
- When a patient has allergies to the inactive ingredients (such as corn or dyes) in manufactured medications.
- When a doctor believes a medicine is needed for their patient that has been discontinued or has never been commercially available.