Services / Compounding
Compounding
Sometimes a commercially available medication is not the right fit. Compounding is the art of preparing a medication to match a prescriber's order and a patient's needs.
What is compounding?
Compounding means a pharmacist prepares a medication from individual ingredients, following a prescription written for you. It lets your prescriber and pharmacist adjust the medication to something that works better for you.
Why people choose compounded medications
- A strength or dose that is not available commercially
- A different form, such as a liquid for someone who has trouble swallowing pills, or a topical cream
- Leaving out an ingredient you are allergic or sensitive to, such as a dye or filler
- Flavouring a medication, which can help children take it
- Combining medications into one preparation, when appropriate
How it works
- Your prescriber writes a prescription for the compounded preparation, or contacts us to discuss one.
- A pharmacist reviews the prescription and confirms that the preparation is suitable.
- We prepare and label your medication. Compounding can take longer than a regular prescription, so please call ahead.
Good to know
- Compounded preparations need a prescription.
- Compounded preparations are made for an individual patient and are different from commercially manufactured products.
- Insurance coverage varies by plan, so please ask us.
- Not every request can be compounded. We will tell you honestly if we cannot help.
For prescribers
Call us at 825-853-9191 to discuss a preparation, or fax your prescription to 403-906-4876.
This page is general information and is not medical advice. Please speak with your pharmacist or doctor about your own situation.