A compounding pharmacy is a specialized pharmacy that creates custom medications tailored to meet the unique needs of individual patients. Rather than dispensing mass-produced pharmaceuticals, compounding pharmacists combine specific ingredients in precise dosages and forms that are often not commercially available. This customization can include altering the medication’s strength, form (e.g., making a liquid for someone who cannot swallow pills), or excluding allergens or non-essential ingredients.
Addressing Medication Shortages and Costs
Compounding pharmacies play a critical role in addressing drug shortages and cost issues. When commercially manufactured medications are unavailable due to supply chain issues or discontinuation, compounding pharmacies can recreate these medications using pharmaceutical-grade ingredients. Additionally, they may provide more affordable alternatives by tailoring formulations to exclude unnecessary brand-specific features, potentially reducing costs for patients.
Emphasis on Safety and FDA Regulations
The safety of compounded medications is a top priority. Compounding pharmacies are subject to stringent state and federal regulations, including oversight by the FDA and state pharmacy boards. The FDA enforces compliance with the Drug Quality and Security Act (DQSA), which outlines standards for facilities engaged in large-scale compounding. These facilities, known as outsourcing facilities, must meet higher production standards and are subject to regular inspections.
Key safety measures include:
•Using only FDA-approved active pharmaceutical ingredients.
•Following USP (United States Pharmacopeia) guidelines to ensure the quality and consistency of compounded medications.
•Maintaining sterility and avoiding contamination, especially for injectable and high-risk formulations.
By adhering to these protocols, compounding pharmacies ensure that the medications they prepare are both effective and safe for patients, offering a reliable alternative when standard options are unavailable.
At Renew You MedSpa, we only use compounding pharmacies that are FDA regulated and use ingredients that are for human consumption and not salt based.
