Frequently Asked Questions About Compounding
Why would someone need or want a compounded prescription?
You may need a compounded prescription because your physician or nurse practitioner wants you to have a medication that is not commercially available, or is not in a form that you can easily take. For example, you may need the prescription made into a liquid. Another common example is the need for compounded natural hormone creams, such as estrogens, progesterone or testosterone.
You mention liquids and creams; what other forms of prescriptions do you compound?
CarePro may also compound capsules, gels, suppositories or lozenges, to name a few.
Do your pharmacy patients always need an order from a doctor?
Yes, all compounded medications require a prescription.
What precisely does the term'compounding' mean?
It is defined by Iowa Pharmacy Law as: "Preparing, mixing, assembling, packaging, and labeling a drug or device for an identified individual patient as a result of a practitioner's prescription drug order or initiative based on the prescriber/patient/pharmacist relationship in the course of professional practice."
Are the compounded properties always made from prescription medications or are they also made from 'natural products'?
Some of the compounds CarePro makes are from prescription drugs, some from non-prescription drugs, and some from natural substances. Or they can be a combination of those different classes.
What are the mechanics and equipment used in the compounding process?
We use precision pharmacy scales and graduated cylinders to weigh or measure the ingredients under a specially vented hood. Then we use classic compounding equipment, such as capsule-filling machines, ointment mills, mortars, and pestles.
How does a patient get a compounded prescription?
Talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner about your special needs. Whether it is a hormone prescription, a cream for the skin, or any other customized prescription, we are here to provide what you need and consult with you on its safe use.