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Compounding

Compounded medications are drugs specifically made and prepared for a patient based on a doctor’s prescription. In essence, the medication is customized and provides benefits to be more tailored to a patient often times making it easier to use. Most common uses for compounded medication are for pain, hormone related conditions, and skin problems. Like commercially manufactured medications, you need a prescription from your doctor for compounded medication. Compounding medications are only available at specialized pharmacies that are equipped to effectively and safely do it according to industry guidelines and state law.

White Mountain Pharmacy Tip

At White Mountain Pharmacy, our focus is on your health and wellness. Talk to our pharmacist about using compounding to tailor your medication to your unique needs. Together with your doctor, we can find a treatment that works for you.

Why Compounding Matters

Compounding medications are needed when commercially available prescriptions do not work properly for different factors,

  • If you are allergic to an inactive ingredient in a prescribed medication such as a preservative or dye, our pharmacist can make that medication without the inactive ingredient.

  • If your child cannot swallow pills, we can make a liquid option that she/he can ingest more easily.

  • If you take hormones, your body may react better to bioidentical hormone therapy.

  • If an exact dosage prescribed is not available.

  • If there is a shortage of or discontinued medication

Common Uses

Any doctor can prescribe a compounded medication, but most prescriptions come from doctors in the following fields: Dermatologist, Pain Specialist, Podiatrist, Endocrinologists (hormone imbalances and other endocrine disorders), Gastroenterologists, and Veterinarians

FAQs from patients

1

How are compounded medications different from other medications?

Compounded medications are not commercially available, unlike brand and generic medications which are made by pharmaceutical companies and have a brand or trade name. Compounded medications are made at the pharmacy, for you, based on your doctor’s prescription.

2

How long does it take for a compounded medication to be ready?

At White Mountain Pharmacy, we strive to have all compounding prescriptions ready the next day.

3

Why can’t I get compounded medications at WMT, Walgreens, or CVS?

Not all retail pharmacies have the proper equipment or raw ingredients to compound a specific medication. At White Mountain Pharmacy, we have the lab equipment, trained technicians, and raw ingredients for your compounding needs. 

4

What do I need a compounded medication for?

If your doctor has prescribed a compounded medication, it is likely because you are allergic to a certain medication, have trouble taking them in certain forms, like tablets, and taking it in liquid dosage form would be more effective.

5

Are compounded prescriptions covered by insurance?

Some health insurance plans cover compounded medications. Check with your insurance company to see if you have coverage. Many pharmacies can bill insurance companies directly for compounded medications. If unable to bill your insurance company, you may submit a claim form to your insurance company to reimburse you directly. Depending on the nature of the product, these medications may be just as affordable as your conventional prescriptions. Pharmacies are also willing to work with patients who wish to pay out-of-pocket on pricing.

6

Does a compounding pharmacist have special training?

All pharmacists are taught in pharmacy school how to properly compound medications, and many compounding pharmacists have advanced training after pharmacy school graduation. Compounding pharmacists utilize their unique pharmacy skills, knowledge, and creativity to work with you and your prescriber to prepare medication in a dosage form that has been customized to your particular needs.

7

Is a prescription required for a compounded medication?

Yes, a prescription order from a physician is required for the pharmacist to compound your medication to meet your specific needs.

Dog Owner

Pet Compounding

Are you a pet parent who needs compounded medication for your furry friend? We can help! Follow this link to learn more about pet compounding. Learn more...

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