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Signs of Alopecia and How to Prevent With Compounding

It’s ideal to know the signs of alopecia in order to seek treatment right away. Here’s what to know and how compounding can help.

Baldness, scientifically known as Androgenic Alopecia affects nearly affects 70% of men and 40% of women at some point in their lives. For most men, hairline recession is common at the temples and the upper surface of the head known as vertex balding. Women on the other hand experience diffused scattered thinning of hair on the top of their scalps. Most people struggling with this condition have a sensitivity to “hair follicle miniaturization” caused by androgenic hormones.

Signs and Symptoms of Alopecia

Look out for the following signs if you suspect that you are dealing with alopecia:

  • You have small bald patches on your head and other parts of your body.
  • Over time, the bald patches on your head and body are getting larger.
  • The hair growth is very random: hair grows in one place and falls out in another.
  • You have lost plenty of hair over a short period of time.
  • You experience more hair loss in the colder months.
  • Your nails are becoming brittle and pitted.
  • Every time you run your fingers through your hair, a handful of hair comes out.
  • You notice receding hairline or an overall thinning of hair.

Causes of Alopecia

Alopecia can be caused by a number of factors. From diseases to chemical damage, drug use, and genetics, the causes are endless. Let’s overview the most common causes:

Androgenic Alopecia (AGA)

Around 95% of hair loss in men is due to this condition. It isn’t as common in women but some women can be impacted by this type of hair loss.

Poor Nutrition

Typically, complete baldness isn’t associated with nutritional deficiencies. However, thinning hair is often linked with a lack of adequate diet and exercise. Studies show that limited food intake and nutritional deficiencies can be linked with hair thinning. Deficiency in the following nutrients will translate into thinning hair: biotin, zinc, iron, and amino acids. Consuming a diet that is high in animal fat can also be detrimental to the health of your hair.

Stress

Stress can have a negative impact on your overall health and your hair. Increased stress levels can restrict the blood supply to capillaries preventing the supply of essential nutrients and oxygen from reaching hair follicles that prevent the growth of hair follicles which results in hair loss.

Medications

Certain medications can trigger hormonal imbalance, which results in hair loss. Common medications that can lead to hair loss are contraceptive pills, hormone replacement therapy, anabolic steroids, acne medication, and medicine for blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and cholesterol.

FDA Approved Treatments for Hair Loss

While most people resort to home remedies and OTC treatments, when it comes to treating hair loss, they rarely work. There are very few FDA Approved Treatments designed to treat the miniaturization of hair follicles, they can work wonders for you. Let’s discuss the two best options:

Finasteride (Propecia®)

The American Hair Loss Association notes finasteride is a prescription oral treatment for male pattern baldness. This drug works by reducing active levels of DHT in the body and preventing the miniaturization of hair follicles. This drug isn’t recommended for women as it can carry high risks. Men who use this treatment might experience loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, hypogonadism, gynecomastia, and sexual dysfunction.

Minoxidil (Rogaine®)

It is an OTC treatment that has been used since the 1990s to treat baldness. The drug promotes hair growth by increasing the cutaneous blood flow to the follicles and shrinks them. It can cause hair in the telogen phase to shed which can worry you. However, it shouldn’t be a source of worry as they will be replaced with thicker hair in the anagen phase. The treatment is quite safe and works wonders when used during the early onset of alopecia.

How to Prevent Hair Loss with Compounding?

There are plenty of other medications can are highly effective for treating hair loss when applied topically. At Burts Rx, we offer compounded formulas that are a combination of FDA-approved treatments and alternative therapies. We create a custom product that not only treats but prevents and reverses hair thinning due to AGA.

Ketoconazole

It is an anti-fungal medication but can be quite effective when used for stimulating hair growth in people struggling with AGA. DHA essentially shrinks the hair follicles in people who struggle with AGA. In addition to Ketoconazole’s ability to kill fungi, it is immensely helpful in countering the effects of DHT.

Minoxidil fortified with Finasteride

Finasteride works by reducing DHT levels. It inhibits the miniaturization of hair follicles in patients struggling with AGA. Oral finasteride is also linked with side effects such as decreased libido, gynecomastia, and sexual dysfunction. A great alternative is a topical finasteride. It works wonders for the maintenance of hair density, and you won’t need to use oral finasteride anymore. This simple switch greatly minimizes the side effects while still giving you amazing hair.

Latanoprost

A study published in May 2012 indicated that latanoprost is a drug that mimics naturally derived compound molecules called prostaglandins. It significantly increases hair density on your scalp once used religiously for 24 weeks in young individuals struggling with mild hair loss. It works quite similarly to the eyelash restoration drug bimatoprost which has been used to treat glaucoma. Latanoprost can also be used to treat eyelash alopecia. Scientists who have conducted the study determined that it can also be beneficial for hair growth on the scalp when applied topically.

Azelaic Acid

It is a naturally occurring substance, commonly found in whole grains. Azelaic Acid is a very mild antibiotic that can eliminate harmful bacteria from the skin. It also supposedly inhibits 5-alpha-reductase which reduces the amount of DHT in the body and can have similar effects to finasteride which is approved for treating alopecia by the FDA.

Final Takeaway

Alopecia is more common than you think. It can take a toll on your self-confidence. However, in most cases, it is treatable. If conventional OTC has failed to work for you, don’t lose hope and try compounding. We hope you found this article informative and helpful! If you have any more questions, leave them down in the comments section below and our team will get back to you.

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Ways Compounding Can Benefit the Active Athlete

There are amazing benefits when it comes to compounding medications for the active athlete. Read more below.

Compounding has many different benefits and applications. One of its prime uses is in sports medicine. There is a reason behind it. Athletes and trainers find compounding medications far more helpful than commercial formulations. Compounded medications are customized to suit the needs of an athlete in terms of specific doses, active ingredients, method of administration, absorption, and plenty of other factors.

Most Common Sports Uses for Compounding Meds

Before diving into the endless benefits of using sports medication for compounding, let’s discuss the top uses. Compounding can be extremely beneficial for treating the following conditions in athletes: dehydration, calluses, wounds, cramps, nutritional needs, dry skin, athlete’s foot, carpal tunnel, and hemorrhoids.

In the longer run, a compounding pharmacy can offer a safe, effective, and convenient treatment for athletes. If your sports program requires a particular formulation, our pharmacists will work together with your sports physician to create a perfect blend for you.  Our team creates safe and effective compounding medications that will help you recover from injuries quickly and effectively. Overall, we help minimize downtime and improve the overall efficacy of the treatment. We can reduce downtime and improve overall treatment results. Burts Rx Compounding is your trusted companion for specialized sports medicine formulations.

Advantages of Compounded Medicine for the Active Athlete

Let’s explore some of the top benefits of compounded medicine:

Improved Delivery Methods

Improved delivery methods for medicine administration are not available with traditional meds. Clearly, they aren’t as effective. It is specifically important in sports where athletes require the best treatments/medications for injuries while practicing/performing the game. Compounded meds offer a distinct advantage over these meds.

Minimized Downtime

Sports medicine involves experimenting with different treatments to achieve a faster healing time as compared to traditional meds. Essentially, the goal is to minimize downtime as much as possible. The benefits of reduced downtime are evident. It allows athletes to return back to the field as soon as possible. Compounding pharmacies play a very important and unique role in this regard. Compounded pharmacists can experiment with different formulations and test athletes’ recovery to better the process.

Let me demonstrate with an example. I am sure you are aware of ketoprofen. Compounds in the topical formulation are much more effective than with traditional oral ketoprofen. Hence, a compounded pharmacist can alter the delivery mode to maximize the benefits. Ketoprofen in topical form can be directly applied to the injury site. As a result, the pain relief is much quicker and more targeted as compared to an oral medication which comes with the downside of gastrointestinal upset.

Customized Treatment Plan

Every single individual is different, and so is their body and rate of recovery post-injury. Some individuals are allergic to certain ingredients in meds while others simply detest oral medications as they can upset their stomach (which is never the ideal scenario for anyone, especially athletes). Compounded medication addresses the unique concerns of every single individual while minimizing the potential side effects.

Avoid Allergic Reactions

There are athletes who have food allergies or other drug sensitivities that make finding the right medication extremely troublesome. For instance, if you are someone with gluten allergy, you need to find a gluten-free alternative. Compounding can formulate a medicine that doesn’t include any gluten-based ingredients while still providing the same benefits.

Pain Management Made Easy

Pain management is very easy with compounding. A lot of athletes receive prescription painkillers. One common concern with painkillers has to be the risk of addiction. Compounding can taper dosages for the medication which minimizes the risk of addiction. Moreover, chronic pain management is also easier with compounding. Compounding pharmacists can add a nutritional supplement to the pain management medication, making it more efficient.

Nutritional Support

Athletes have to keep a very close tab on their supplements and diet intake. A lot of athletes take nutritional supplements to support muscle healing and growth. Supplements can help your muscles recover quickly. Compounding allows athletes to custom-create their supplements as per their unique needs. Certain supplements come in limited varieties which are not always extremely the most effective. Burts Rx Pharmacy can help devise supplement variations that will suit the unique requirements of an athlete.

Why Compounded Medication Works Wonders for Sports Medicine?

Every athlete is unique and so are his/her challenges. And no, we are not only talking about the weight and build. Other factors such as tolerance to medication, level of injury, age, preferred administration method, and allergies play a very important role as well.

Hence, the number of commercial sports medications that truly work is very small. When you level up to professional sports, the number becomes almost non-existent. While doing professional sports, athletes have a very small time to recover. As every single individual heals at a different pace, finding effective commercial medications is impossible especially when the entire team is involved. That is where compounding comes to the rescue.

Let me demonstrate with an example. Knee injuries are very common amongst athletes. One knee injury can be more devastating than the other. Hence, different recovery methods will be required. A compounding pharmacist can help address the unique challenges of each injury by creating custom treatments. Athletes at all levels can benefit from compounded medications as they are formulated specifically for them.

The Bottom Line

Whether you are dealing with a sports-related injury, struggling to find a unique prescription, worried about additives/preservatives in the meds, experiencing side effects from a particular drug, or have a very specific supplemental requirement, Burts Rx Pharmacy can help you out. We offer personalized compounding medications that are catered to your individual needs so don’t have to worry about anything. Simply put your focus to where it belongs: training and competing.

If you want to learn more about compounding medications or have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team today and our team would love to help you out. You can be more impactful with a combination of the right diet, workout regimen and professionally prepared medications, and supplements.

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How to Get Rid of Allergies for Children With Compounding

Allergies can be uncomfortable time for your child. However today we look at strategies of how to get rid of allergies for children with compounding. Read more below…

Children and medication are a tricky subject especially when it comes to those who suffer from allergies. Along with the active ingredients, conventional pills and syrups contain fillers, dyes, and binders, none of which work in the best interest of patients who are allergic to them. That makes the treatment potentially fatal. Some of the most common allergens include peanut oil, corn, wheat, coconut, gelatin, potatoes, and dairy.

Compounded Pediatric Capsules and Liquids – Burts Rx Pharmacy

If your child’s prescription medicine contains any of the allergens, your compounding pharmacist can help reformulate the drug. Doing so will eliminate non-essential ingredients from the meds, thereby minimizing the chances of an allergic reaction. Doctors offer prescriptions for compounded meds so that your child’s health isn’t compromised.

Other Benefits of Compound Medications

Compounding medications are designed with different types of delivery methods to suit the needs of your child. For instance, if your kid finds it difficult to swallow a pill, it can be converted into an oral suspension. In certain cases, the pills can also be transformed into a topical cream as well. Compounding meds are used to treat a multitude of different conditions. Generally, compounded pharmacies are prescribed oral pain meds, topical pain meds, HRT, thyroid meds, dermatological meds, and many others.

Patients With Food Allergies

Food allergies are more common than you think. If your child struggles with food allergies, you know how much of a challenge it is for caregivers and practitioners. Some of the common foods that trigger allergic reactions include cow’s milk, eggs, tree nuts, corn, wheat, soy, and corn. These impact nearly 8% of the children. A lot of parents find that their children are also allergic to food dyes and hence, they need meds that do not contain any food colorings.

Whether your kid is dealing with more common food allergies or a very rare trigger, over-the-counter meds are hard to navigate. A compounding pharmacist will use pharmaceutical-grade ingredients along with an allergy-free base to curb the side effects.

Kids with Specific Dietary Needs

Certain kids have specific dietary needs. For instance, your child might be on a gluten-free celiac diet. You will be surprised to know that a lot of meds contain gluten. It is difficult for you to spot gluten in meds because it comes with different ingredient names such as dextrans, dextrins, starch, and sodium starch glycolate. If your child has any specific dietary needs, the best way is to work with a compounding pharmacist.

Another dietary intervention is a ketogenic diet which is extremely helpful in minimizing seizure activity in children with epilepsy. Ketogenic is a diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in fat. Your compounding pharmacist will help keep the diet on track while ensuring the meds fit your needs.

Kids Who Need Medications in A Dosage That Is Unavailable

Compounding Pharmacists help offer patient-centric guidance in selecting the best form, dose, and formulation for your specific needs. This greatly improves the treatment outcome by optimizing the dosage of medication and reducing adverse reactions to the drug.

Compounding pediatric meds are an important part of patient care and which our team greatly takes to the heart at Burt’s Rx Pharmacy. Our experienced pharmacists are happy to discuss the unique needs of the patient.

Are Compound Medications Safe?

We use rigorous safety standards when it comes to compounding drugs in a sterile environment. It is important to note that compounding meds can get expensive. Hence, it is a good idea to check in with your insurance provider to make sure they cover the costs. Compounding medications do not cover alternative medications.

Not regular retail pharmacies can offer compounded medications. Most conventional pharmacies focus on the development of commercially available drugs that don’t involve any mixing. Hence, the patient must go to a specialized compounding pharmacy. There are limited options when it comes to pediatric medicine. A lot of kids are unable to swallow pills until they are older than seven years of age. You cannot find chewable pills and liquids from a conventional store. Pediatric compounding overcomes these challenges by offering tailored medications for your children.

Why is Pediatric Compounding Useful?

You might be able to find meds in a chewable and liquid form, but they will still taste bad which will hinder your child’s willingness to consume them. Sometimes, conventional pharmacies will only offer a particular medication in a pill form and cannot be altered. Some parents end up crushing the pills prior to giving them to their kids. However, it isn’t always safe. They might be dangerous for you when they are crushed/chewed. You shouldn’t try to alter the medication without consulting your doctor.

Pediatric compounding allows pharmacists to alter medications in a way that they are easier to administer. For instance, a pill might be converted into a lollipop or a liquid suspension. Pediatric compounding can help turn conventional meds into flavored liquids, topical creams, lotion, gels, foams, lollipops, dissolvable troches, popsicles, and suppositories.

Other Uses for Pediatric Compounding

Apart from altering the dosage form, pediatric compounding enables your pharmacist and pediatrician to work together in order to create a medicine that suits your child’s needs best. Compounding essentially combines different ingredients to custom-create medicine that can help overcome several common barriers found with pediatric medications.

Certain products can be compounded without inactive ingredients such as sugar, soy, dyes, gluten, and more to accommodate children who are allergic to these.

Similarly, the compounding pharmacist will add coloring and flavoring to medications to make them more appealing and palatable without altering the efficacy.

Certain retail medications only come in adult dosing, but compounding can alter the choice of active ingredients to offer the best dose for your kid to minimize unwanted side effects.

Final Takeaway

Compounding is hands down the best choice for children dealing with allergies. If you need more information on a particular medication or alternative dosage forms, get in touch with us immediately.

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Improve Your Skin Elasticity With Anti-Aging Compounding

Looking to improve your skin elasticity with anti-aging compounding? Read more below to see how…

Firstly…

We all know that aging is an unavoidable phenomenon. Yet, we all detest our changing appearance as we age. I am sure all of us like to look younger than we are. Unfortunately, the conventional anti-aging products available on the market don’t do anything to decelerate the aging process. We as consumers are often bombarded with our claims and end up wasting a lot of our money. When it comes to topical treatments, it is important to select the right active ingredients as they offer the best results when it comes to tackling the signs of aging including fine lines and wrinkles.

Drug stores and high-end beauty products that contain active ingredients come in standard formulations that won’t work as effectively as the custom formulations. A compounding pharmacist creates custom formulations that will help fight the symptoms of aging effectively. They can create customized creams, gels, and serums to help you obtain the best results. Consistent use of topical medications helps to minimize the observable effects of aging such as wrinkles, age spots, open pores, loss of elasticity, and fine lines. With compounding, you will be able to get the benefits of a standardized dosage. The compounding pharmacist will eliminate any compounds that lead to allergies. You cannot achieve the same results with commercial preparations and many people end up with an allergic reaction.

At Burt’s Rx Pharmacy, we offer compound formulations that involve the use of high-quality ingredients such as Estrogen, vitamin E, retinol, palmitate, melatonin, vitamin C, DHEA, and tea tree extracts, CoQ-10, and many others to offer you the best outcome. Essentially, our goal is to fight the signs of aging while minimizing the additional damage to the skin. Compounding is a great way to have a holistic and organized approach to your well-being. 

Benefits of Compounded Anti-Aging Solutions

We design custom formulations, keeping the unique needs of the patient at the forefront. Moreover, we also customize the medication delivery method based on the preference of the patient as well as the prescription of the skincare practitioner. This minimizes the chances of any allergic reactions as well as gives you the best possible outcome

Compounded Anti-Aging Medications Addresses Specific Skin Concerns

Compounded skin care medications help to manage plenty of skin concerns such as irritation, age spots, blemishes, inflammation, dryness, rashes, and dual-tone skin. We formulate anti-aging crema that are rich in vitamin E, B, retinoic acid, and other minerals and vitamins that instantly improve the quality of your skin. We customize the meds as per the unique requirements of the patients. We also offer creams with highly concentrated ingredients that give you amazing results when used over an extended period of time. The side effects of compounded meds are also greatly reduced.

We also formulate bleaching creams that contain hydroquinone, retinoic acid, and steroids which minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation and other complications. Another positive factor of compounding meds is the pharmacist’s ability to control the concentration of each active ingredient guaranteeing individualized treatment for every single patient.

Custom Serums for Wrinkle Reduction

The outer layer of skin is called the epidermis which receives support from connective tissue known as collagen. With age, the collagen will start to deplete which causes your skin to lose its elasticity. This also forms wrinkles, fine lines, and creases on your skin. A collagen serum will stimulate the production of collagen and volumize your skin to minimize the signs of aging. Some of the ingredients we commonly use to formulate anti-wrinkle serums include but are not limited to:

  • Estrogen – It is used to improve the firmness of the skin and skin elasticity, and to add moisture to the skin.
  • Vitamin E – This is a super-powerful antioxidant that prevents the formulation of fine lines and wrinkles when combined with melatonin.
  • Retinol Palmitate – It helps plump up your skin and increases the production of collagen which plumps up your skin and promotes collagen production.
  • Melatonin – This hormone works wonders to slow down the aging process while minimizing the damage.
  • DHEA – This is a natural steroid hormone that acts as a hydrating agent and promotes the thickness of the epidermis. Within a couple of months, this ingredient can make your skin appear brighter and prevent thinning of the epidermis.

Custom Anti-Aging Creams

Environmental stressors, oxidative damage, and other factors will lead to skin aging. All these factors will reduce cellular turnover and minimize the production of collagen, leading to aging. The use of compounding anti-aging creams in combination with sunscreen will minimize the signs of aging and enhance the overall appearance of your skin.

Commonly used ingredients in compounded anti-aging creams include but are not limited to:

Estrogen – This ingredient works wonders for skin moisture, elasticity, and overall firmness.

Vitamin E – This powerful antioxidant works miracles for the prevention of fine lines and wrinkles.

Retinol Molecular Film – This is a highly stable form of Vitamin A that protects your skin against sun damage and other environmental factors. All in all, it will give you more elastic and youthful skin.

Sodium Hyaluronate – It includes hyaluronic acid which is essential for the synthesis of collagen. As a result, your skin becomes more elastic, retains moisture, and maintains its youthful glow.

Collagen Hydrolysate – This is a powerful ingredient that induces the growth of collagen fibers, resulting in smooth and tighter skin. It also slows down the breakdown of elastin fibers which is essential for youthful skin.

Final Takeaway On Improving Your Skins Elasticity 

Compounding is the only way to achieve the best possible results when it comes to aging. Essentially, it is skincare suited for your unique skin concerns. From sunscreens to aging to moisturizers to serums, you can get anything under the roof. It will preserve youthful glory and give you a healthy and radiant glow.

However, it is important to understand that not all compounding pharmacies are created equal and you might want to do some research before settling on the one. It is also important to find a good skin specialist. The skin specialist will work with the compounding pharmacist to help create the best anti-aging regimen for you that will produce great results.

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How to Prevent Arthritis Pain With Compounding

Arthritis can be at times very discomforting to deal with. Today we strive to ease that pain with our breakdown of how to prevent arthritis pain with compounding! Read below for more…

Aches and pains worsen as temperatures begin to dip. If you experience this as well, you are not alone. A lot of individuals report increased joint pain during the winter months. Experts aren’t sure why this happens. However, it is a common phenomenon. Certain researchers blame it on barometric pressure fluctuations which can cause inflammatory reactions in the joints that worsen the pain.

Another group believes that the human body works harder to conserve energy to maintain the core body temperature which leaves the limbs with reduced blood flow. Poor circulation could be one of the reasons behind joint pain.

Regardless of the cause, patients who struggle with arthritis experience a noticeable decline in their quality of life during the winter months. While arthritis can impact any joint in your body, a lot of people report discomfort in weight-bearing joints; ankles, knees, and hips.

Types of Arthritis and Pains for Patients

There are multiple types of arthritis and each one will affect your body in a different way. It is important to understand the impact of cold weather on your body and your day-to-day functioning. Let’s discuss the major types of arthritis in detail:

Osteoarthritis

This is hands down the most common type of arthritis. It essentially happens due to the breakdown of cartilage which is responsible for holding the joints together. This essentially makes it more difficult for the joints to move together leading to friction, pain, and inflammation. The severity of the condition is essentially dependent on the number of limbs involved and how much cartilage is left behind.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

When your immune system starts to attack your joints, the condition is known as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Essentially, it will impact the lining of joints known as synovium. RA can lead to permanent joint damage. Any changes in pressure will trigger the inflammatory response in your joints.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis is an auto-immune disease that will impact the joints by causing cycles of inflammation. Individuals who struggle with psoriatic arthritis also struggle with bouts of psoriasis along with intense joint pain.

Topical Creams and Management of Arthritis Pain

The pain management of arthritis essentially comes down to lifestyle modifications and administration of topical creams along with systemic analgesics. The topical treatment involves applying a cream/ointment to the affected area in order to relieve symptoms associated with arthritis. The most common topical treatments include:

Lidocaine – It comes in OTC as well as prescription-strength formulations and is hands down one of the most common topical treatment options.

Menthol – It offers a cooling effect and brings instant, temporary relief to arthritis symptoms.

Capsaicin – Some patients prefer warmth to relieve their painful symptoms. This particular one is a derivative of cayenne pepper and brings great relief.

Compounding Topical Arthritis Pain Relief Medications

Sometimes conventional medicine is not enough to bring relief to the patients. While rubbing various creams and gels into the painful joints can bring great improvement in arthritis symptoms. The situation isn’t the same for everyone.

Compounding offers the benefits of multiple compounding formulations which can bring lasting and quality pain relief. A lot of the ingredients that help with arthritis pain are best absorbed through the skin. Hence, topical medications through the transdermal route offer instant pain relief as compared to other forms of medicine.

Sometimes topical meds are combined with other forms of pain relief to tackle the toughest symptoms. Not all of us can benefit from the same medication and that is where compounding steps in to help.

Benefits Of Compounding Topical Creams for Arthritis Pain Management

Compounding offers the benefits of unique dosages and custom formulations that efficiently tackle plenty of medical issues. Some of the top benefits include:

  • Instant relief from symptoms of arthritis
  • Targeted medication for the site of the pain
  • Prescription-strength relief suited to the individual
  • Non-habit forming meds
  • Elimination of systemic side effects: drowsiness, upset stomach, etc.
  • Elimination of odor and unpleasant smell that comes with OTC drugs
  • Custom dosage and formulations

A lot of over-the-counter and prescription arthritis medications come with a single active ingredient. While it does offer relief, it doesn’t address the fact that each individual experiences the pain in a different manner. Compounded topical medications make use of multiple active ingredients that work synergistically to offer relief from pain.

Every ingredient has a different action mechanism. As a result, patients get long-lasting results that offer more effective pain relief. A lot of patients experience increased arthritis pain during the colder months. Hence, effective pain relief exists in the form of compounded meds. As a result, you get more effective, targeted relief of your arthritis pain.

Final Takeaway

Pain from arthritis is inevitable. However, your suffering doesn’t have to be. Any kind of acute pain can turn into long-term pain that impacts your day-to-day living. Oftentimes, commercially available medications aren’t enough to cure your pain. Even if they do, they come with a list of unwanted side effects such as an upset stomach, dizziness, drowsiness, and more. In some patients, they can lead to skin irritation as well. A lot of patients accept these side effects but you don’t have to, especially when there is a better option aka pharmacy compounding.

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It is best to share your concerns with a physician. Together your physician and a compounding pharmacist will determine a perfect solution for you that fits your needs best, minus all the side effects.

We hope you found this article helpful and informative. If you have any other questions, leave them down in the comments section below.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and isn’t meant to be used as a form of diagnosis and possible treatment choice. Always consult your physician prior to using any form of the drug for your pain management and any other health conditions.

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Effective Strategies For Organizing Medicine

Organizing medicine can be an arduous task, especially if you have multiple medications with varying time windows. Today we will help solve this problem and get you organized so you can focus on life! Read more below…

Getting Started With Organizing Medicine

When you are consuming a lot of meds, organizing your medicine is a challenging task. It is tough to remember the names of different medications, their timings, and when and how often are you supposed to take them. It is confusing and overwhelming, especially if you take multiple medications and supplements. In this article, we will discuss certain tips and tools that will help you stay on top of your medication schedule, prevent missed doses, and never run out of refills. Without further ado, let’s get started:

Importance of Medication Management 

If you are someone who consumes a lot of medicines daily, errors are bound to occur. Whether it be a missed dosage, taking the same medication twice, or running out of a particular medicine/supplement. Effective medication management will help you minimize errors which helps improve your health.

Tip No 1: Use a Daily Pill Organizer

This tip is the simplest yet the most ignored tip. You need to get your hands on a daily pill organizer. It is beneficial for those who have to take multiple medications every day. It typically has a minimum of 7 or more compartments. You can easily store your days’ worth of pills in it the night before. It will help you stay on top of your schedule. You can always keep a dosage schedule near your bedside table that includes the description and timing of each of the pills that you have added in the case. 

The only drawback of this method is that it isn’t the best way of organizing meds if you have young kids at home. Kids are drawn to the pills (especially colorful ones). It can lead to accidents, disorganization, and potential overdose. If you take a lot of meds, they might not fit in the store-bought pill organizer, and you’ll have to do a fair bit of research before you land on the one that can easily store all your medicine. 

Tip No 2: Make a Medicine and Dosage Schedule Chart

This can take some time, but it is hands down the best way to manage your daily or weekly dose of medicine. You can either take a pen and paper and do it the simple way (However, you’ll have to create a new list every single day) or go on your computer and use a spreadsheet to create one. You can also make one on a phone app where you can check things off. There is no right or wrong way to do it. 

You might want to list all the medicine names, their schedule, and why you are taking it. It is always a great idea to include a check box at the end. Whenever you take a medicine, simply check it off. I find tracking the meds on my phone is the easiest way. However, choose a method that seems the simplest to you.

Tip No 3: Create a List of Your Medicine

Another beneficial thing is creating a list of all your medication. Ensure the name, dosage in detail, frequency, potential side effects, and when to stop the medicine. If you are allergic to any medicines, please mention that in the list.  You can create multiple copies of the list. Whenever you visit a healthcare provider, take a copy with you to the appointment so they can overview all the meds you have been taking along and be aware of the potential allergies. Always keep a copy with you on your mobile and email if anything urgent arises. 

Tip No 4: Make Use of a Medication Application 

We all have smartphones and tablets lying around the house these days. Multiple apps will help your meds effectively. Moreover, they help you look up the information about a drug. Set your schedules, and get reminders throughout the day. You don’t have to buy a paid app. You can choose from plenty of free apps that have amazing ratings.

Tip No 5: Always Check the Prescription Labels 

It is important to check the prescription labels. Have a close look at the expiration date, refill info, and discard the old medicine as needed. Whenever you are running low on a medication that requires a refill, always call your pharmacist beforehand. This will prevent any missed doses. 

If you think you may need a refill on a medication that has no refills left, call your healthcare provider’s office as soon as possible to allow time for the healthcare provider to call the pharmacist.

Tip No 6: Use Pill Reminders to Your Advantage

Multiple electronic pill reminders are available on the market. You can select the one as per your budget and liking. With these devices, you can add the name of the medication you are taking, frequency, instructions regarding meds (whether you have to take on an empty stomach or with food), and other details as needed. 

You can also use mobile apps for this purpose. An alarm sound will ring whenever you have to take a medicine with all the necessary details. It will prevent missed dosages and improve your overall health. Although phone apps are much simpler, electronic devices work better for old-school individuals.

When to Call a Doctor?

Despite taking all these measures, there might be times when you mess up, and that’s human. Here is when you need to call the healthcare provider: 

  • If you are unsure whether you missed a medicine or not or completely forgot to take it. 
  • If you struggle to remember consuming your medicine regularly despite all these measures.
  • If you find it difficult to consume a lot of medicine and wish to cut down on them or go for compounding to alter the dosage etc. 

Final Thoughts on Organizing Medicine

These tips will help you manage the medication easily and boost your health. Despite following all these tips, if you are still struggling, reach out to your healthcare provider. If you have any further questions, let us know in the comments section below.

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Compounding

The Amazing Benefits of Fish Oil for Dogs

If you’ve been a reader of our blog you’ll note the amazing benefits of compounding medications for humans. However today we go over why adding a fish oil supplement to your dog’s diet could make them one happy pup! Read more below…

Overview

  • Fish oil is a dietary supplement that can aid many important functions when it comes to dogs’ health; heart, skin, immune system, and coat.
  • Fish oil can help your dogs with a momentary dietary boost or be a part of a long-term health plan.
  • It is crucial to consult a veterinarian before adding fish oil or any other supplements to your dog’s diet.

Fish oil is hands down one of the most beneficial supplements that can be added to your dog’s diet. It supports heart health, minimizes the chances of getting itchy, flaky skin, promotes a silky coat, minimizes allergies, and joint pain, and helps strengthen their immunity. These supplements could even help them fight canine cancer.

Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for your dog’s body and brain. Similar to humans, dogs cannot produce the omega-3 acids on their own and require supplementation. If you are considering adding the amazing fish oil supplement to your dog’s diet, we are going to discuss certain important aspects below.

Fatty Acids in Fish Oil

Fish oil contains four main types of dietary fats; trans, saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. Polyunsaturated fats contain omega fatty acids that are essential for regulating blood flow and inflammation. It is important to note that these fats aren’t found naturally in the dog’s body. They are typically found in water fish, plant oils, nut oils, flaxseed, and shellfish. Your dog needs omega-3 in its diet for multiple reasons.

Omega-3 helps to balance out omega-6 acids which are a common nutrient in most grains and processed foods. A lot of dog manufacturers use meat from corn-fed animals along with refined oil, dogs usually have an abundance of omega-6 fatty acids in their diet (which isn’t great). Most of the time, dogs have an excess of omega-6 fatty acids and a lack of omega-3 fatty acids. Their bodies require both in balance to function optimally.

Why is Fish Oil Important for My Dog?

Fish oil is hands down one of the best ways to add omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. Based on their diet, you can use them temporarily, or on a long-term basis. In some cases, vets recommend the supplement to provide a temporary nutritional boost to the diet.

Another great benefit of fish oil is that it helps dogs across the span of their lifetimes. For instance, DHA is an important component that helps with the brain and eye development of puppies. It is also great for improving cognitive function in older dogs who deal with canine cognitive dysfunction. Research suggests that omega 3 fatty acids also help treat chronic kidney disease and arthritis. Like any other supplement, it is important to consult your vet prior to adding fish oil supplements to your dog’s diet.

 

Selecting a Good Fish Oil Supplement for Your Dog

There are three main types of fish oil supplements widely available in the market. Let’s briefly discuss them:

  • Natural Triglyceride Oil – It is a natural and easy to absorb oil. However, it might contain contaminants as it isn’t purified.
  • Ethyl Ester Oil – This oil is fairly concentrated and is distilled to remove impurities. You can think of it as a semi-natural oil that contains high levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).
  • Synthetic Triglyceride Oil – It is synthetic and is difficult to get absorbed as compared to the rest of the options.

Prior to selecting the type of fish oil, it is important to take several factors into account; breed, weight, overall health, and size of the dog. Consult with your vet in this regard as well. If used on a long-term basis with a grain-based diet, fish oil might end up depleting vitamin E. So, your dog might need vitamin E supplementation too.

Fish Oil Supplement Recommendations

Following are some of the amazing fish oil supplements that are loved by the dog owners:

TerraMax Pro Premium Liquid Omega-3 Fish Oil

This is an all-natural supplement that is free from any artificial ingredients and is free from chemicals. It contains at least 800 mg EPA and 525 DHA per serving that supports skin, joints, fur, and overall health. Luckily, it doesn’t come with a strong fish scent. Most people have a positive experience with this one. As per reviews, it is worth the cost and works really well for pets that struggle with itchy skin and joint pain. It is priced at $20.

Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet

This particular supplement is made in the USA and is a great source of EPA and DHA. It is deemed perfect for small-breed dogs. Nearly all the reviews of this supplement are positive. It is sure to leave your pet’s coat silky smooth.

Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet Soft Gels

If your pup prefers a capsule that is a liquid that is added to their food, Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet Soft Gels are the perfect solution for you. This supplement is made with very clean ingredients and is produced in true triglyceride form to ensure optimal results and absorption. The gels are often recommended by veterinarians for all kinds of dogs. The supplement has tons of positive reviews as well and people say that they are super effective and less messy.

Care and Storage of Fish Oil

It is important to protect the fish oil supplements from heat, light, and air. Make sure you purchase the one that comes in a dark bottle and store it in a refrigerator. These supplements are susceptible to oxidation and can become rancid. If you suspect a weird odor, throw them off immediately.

Instead of following the dosage guidelines on the package, ask your vet about the usage for your dog. The amount of fish oil is directly proportional to the size, weight, and age of the dog.

Wrapping Up Fish Oil For Dogs

It is very difficult to feed your dog a natural diet. Most dog foods contain a ton of artificial ingredients. And nearly every dog needs fish oil, a supplement for their health needs. Always consult your vet before starting your dog on fish oil or any other kind of supplement and always go for high-quality products.

We hope you found this post helpful. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us.

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Compounding

A Look at Compounding Medication History and Its Evolution

It’s always useful to know all about compounding medication history and how it’s evolved to the present day. Read further on now.

Compounding medications have gained a lot of popularity in recent times, especially among those dealing with multiple medical conditions, the elderly, young children, pets, and those who are allergic to certain ingredients found in common meds.

For those of you who have heard the term for the first time, let me explain it to you: A compounded medication is essentially a drug that is specifically prepared for an individual based on the prescription from the doctor. Such drugs are not available at regular pharmacies and require the expertise of compounded pharmacists. Creating compounded meds involves mixing one or more active ingredients in a very specific amount to create a drug that suits you or your loved ones.

The key advantage of this process is that medication is created to fit your needs. Whether it means altering the dosage or changing the form of a particular drug (syrup, pill, injection, an ointment, or even a lolly for kids). Sometimes multiple pills are combined into one. Other times, a hard-to-swallow pill is turned into a syrup for easier administration. In some cases, allergens are removed from conventional meds to fit your unique needs best while in other cases, the dosage is altered. There are times when a combination of all the above is required.

Taking medications is never fun. However, compounding can definitely make the process easier for you.

What Are Compounded Medications Used For?

Compounded medications can be used for all sorts of different conditions. However, they are more commonly prescribed for individuals dealing with pain, thyroid, hormone-related conditions, and skin problems. While any doctor can prescribe compounding meds, most of the prescriptions come from doctors in the following fields: Dermatologists (skin), Pain specialists, Podiatrists (feet), Endocrinologists (hormone imbalances and other endocrine disorders), Gastroenterologists (digestive system), and Veterinarians.

Compounding Medication History

For those of you who are interested in where the compounding originated, let’s give you a little background. It is quite difficult to pinpoint the ancestries of compounding as combining multiple agents to create a medication begins way before the term compounding was coined.

The art of compounded meds can be linked to the origins of the pharmacy. If you are talking about the first documented chemical process, it goes as far back as the Egyptians.

The earliest chemists used various natural substances as medication. They compounded multiple preparations such as dyes, incenses, perfumes, preservatives, cosmetics, and of course medications.

In the medieval Islamic world, Muslim pharmacists and chemists developed advanced methods of compounding drugs. The first drug store was opened in Baghdad by a Muslim Pharmacist in the year 754. Off course, the definition of the pharmacist wasn’t quite the same as it is now. When it comes to modern age compounding, it began around the 19th century with the goal of separating coal tar from certain compounds in order to obtain a synthetic dye.  The earliest antibacterial sulfa drugs, phenolic compounds, and plastics were all the products of compounding.

In the 1800s, pharmacists specialized in the compounding of crude drugs. Crude drugs are obtained from natural resources and contain several chemical compounds. The pharmacist used to extract these drugs with the help of solvents like water and alcohol to create extract, decoctions, and concoctions.

They started the procedure by isolating and identifying the active ingredients in these concoctions using fractionation or recrystallization to separate an active ingredient from the crude preparation and created a compounded medication.

As soon as pharmacists figured out the isolation of medications from different raw materials and crude drugs, the modern pharmaceutical company was born. Pharmacists were trained to compound medications by different drug companies. The problem was it couldn’t be done efficiently on a smaller scale which lead to the development of the modern pharmaceutical industry.

As the 20th century started to role, the government imposed various regulations on the practice of medication. This forced various drug manufacturing companies to better their medication and ensure patient safety. The discovery of penicillin along with modern marketing tactics give rise to the drug manufacturing industry that you see today.

How Has It Evolved Over The Years?

Initially, physicians prescribed and compounded the patient’s medication themselves. In the late 19th century, there was a clear distinction between a pharmacist and a physician.

Historically, compounding was an essential part of the pharmaceutical process. In the earlier 1900s, the majority of the medications were available as a result of pharmaceutical compounding. With the progression of the 20th century, the need for compounding pharmacies diminished as a result of mass drug manufacturing.

In the modern-day, compounded pharmacy experienced a major resurgence as the need for custom medications become more and more prevalent. The demand for customized meds is always on the rise as conventional drugs don’t meet the requirements of every single patient. Compounding pharmacists fill a major gap in the medical industry and offer customized solutions to patients with unique needs.

About Burt’s Good Neighbor Pharmacy

As your Good Neighbor Pharmacy, we’re committed to helping you achieve your health care goals. From treating everyday conditions to achieving personal wellness, our talented and compassionate Burt’s pharmacy care team members can answer your questions and find solutions that fit you like a glove.

With over 40 years of experience as your local pharmacy serving the community, we understand what Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, and Westlake Village patients need most. Our compounding pharmacy members are here for you.

Final Takeaway

While compounding pharmacies are one of the best facilities of the modern age, it is important to know that all pharmacies aren’t created equal. Moreover, it is always recommended to take your healthcare provider on board whenever you are considering compounded meds whether it be for yourself, your kid, or your pet. The best results are achieved when your healthcare provider and the compounded pharmacist work together to achieve the best outcome for your health.

Benefit from everyday low prices, in-house compounding services, preferred pricing, easy access to medical supplies, and friendly, supportive staff that are always just a phone call away. Feel free to reach out to us in case of any questions, queries, or compounding needs.

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Compounding

What’s a Pharmacy That Offers Compounding?

If you’re wondering what’s a pharmacy that offers compounding medicine, then read below for details.

Most people think of a community pharmacy as soon as they hear the term ‘Pharmacy’. They can range from different chains to single-location pharmacies, or the ones found in the hospital. While these are very common, it is important to know that there is a different type of pharmacy that exists; a compounding pharmacy.

If you have heard the term before, let us explain it to you: compounding pharmacy offers extra services that other pharmacies aren’t able to. These pharmacies essentially combine and mix different ingredients to create customized medications. In this article, we will discuss what are compounding pharmacies, the benefits of these pharmacies, and where to find them. Without further ado, let’s get started:

What is a Compounding Pharmacy?

A compounding pharmacy is a specific type of pharmacy that can create customized medications for you, your family, or a pet. Certain people/meds aren’t commercially available and are more suited for a particular individual. Compounded medications aren’t mass-produced and are available at a standard pharmacy.

Essentially, compounding pharmacies create two types of compounds: sterile and non-sterile. Some compounding pharmacies specialize in one of the following. Some do specialize in both. Sterile compounds include dosage forms such as infusions, injections, and eye drops. There is a higher risk of infections, and serious issues if your medication comes in contact with the contaminants. Sterile compounds are made in a specialized environment that minimizes the risk.

Non-sterile compounds carry a lower risk of infections and generally include creams, capsules, and suppositories. These two categories exist because of the legislation enacted by the U.S. government.

How Is It Different from a Traditional Pharmacy?

It is important to know that many community and hospital pharmacies offer compounding services. However, note that they generally don’t have the same specialized equipment/certifications as a compounding pharmacy. Hence, they only create very simple customized medications.

For instance, it is very common for a pharmacist to combine a couple of creams to create a new cream. They can combine liquid or oral medications and also sterile ones. A compounding pharmacy can also go a step further and create more complex meds.

Why Would I Need Compounded Medications?

There are multiple reasons why you might need a compounded medication. Based on the situation, you might not be able to get your hands on a standard drug medication that meets your needs. Some of the possible situations why compounding might come in handy include: adding flavor to a poor-tasting medication, having an allergy to inactive ingredients in a premade medication, needing access to a critical medication that’s unavailable or on backorder, needing a different medication dosage form (e.g. a liquid instead of pills), or need a specific medication strength.

Types of Medications Compounding Pharmacies Dispense

Compounding medications come in different forms that suit different situations. If you have a child that simply cannot swallow pills, a compounding pharmacy can turn the regular pill into a gummy, a chewable tablet, or a candy. It can make the administration process much easier.

In some cases, you might need a different strength medication than what is already available. Compounded liquids like suspensions, syrups, and solutions can be customized that better suit your needs. However, the specifics of compounding pharmacy can vary. There are compounding pharmacies that specialize in making medications that are very specific to certain health conditions. For instance, some can specialize in veterinary medicine, men’s health, dermatology, or other specialties.

Specific Medication Examples

There are multiple formulas that a compounding pharmacist will follow to use a compounding drug. Most compounded medications are made from bulk ingredients, commercial drug products, or created from a combination of these two. Some examples of compounding pharmacies include multi-ingredient topical pain creams, hormone creams, capsules, and suppositories, rectal suppositories for hemorrhoids or anal fissures, topical nipple ointment, magic mouthwash, omeprazole or lansoprazole liquid for kids, diazepam suppositories for chronic pelvic pain, sterile antibiotic eye drops, sterile nutrition therapy infusions, and much more.

How Do I Find a Compounding Pharmacy Near Me?

There are multiple ways to locate a compounding pharmacy near your local area. The first thing you can do is reach out to your healthcare provider and ask for their recommendations. Chances are, they will be able to direct you to a compounding pharmacy they typically work with or have used in the past. They can also guide you in regards to finding a specialized compounding pharmacy that suits your needs.

Another way is to simply use the internet for rescue and hunt from compounding pharmacies in your area. Essentially, your local community pharmacy will be able to compound your medication with the help of your pharmacist.

Safety of Compounding Medications

Compounded medications aren’t approved by FDA. This essentially means that FDA will not evaluate the safety and efficacy of a particular medication. FDA allows for compounding meds and must be given to the patient when there is a medical need. Moreover, it is important to note that only certain healthcare professionals, licensed pharmacists/physicians can create customized medications.

USP also created standards to ensure compounded medications are high quality and establish standards for how compounds are made, tested, and verified. Most states will require compounding pharmacies to comply with USP standards. Compounding pharmacies are regulated by their state Board of Pharmacy. All the meds are exposed to inspection to meet all the expectations. Corrective action can take place if a compounding pharmacy is not following the standards. Certain pharmacies aren’t expected with FDA as well.

We hope you found this post informative, and helpful and learned something new about compounding pharmacies and how they can work in your favor. Here, we have barely scratched the surface but have tried to explain the concept to you in the simplest way possible. If you have any further questions or would you like us to answer any specific questions, feel free to reach out to us.

In Conclusion

If you need help in creating any customized medication for you, your family members, or pets, connect with our team and we would guide you about the process in detail.

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Compounding

What Types of Compound Medication Can Be For Animal Use?

A better understanding of compound medication for animal use is helpful. Read all the details here.

If you are a pet owner then you are probably on the lookout for the safest and best treatment options for your pets. Today, we are going to discuss drug compounding and how it is one of the best options for your furry friends.

But first, let’s discuss what compounding is?

Drug compounding is essentially a process of mixing, altering, and combining the ingredients of a certain medication/medications to fit the needs of the individual animal/person. These drugs play a very important role in veterinary medicine. Compounded drugs for animals are made by veterinarians and pharmacists. The FDA only approves compounding drugs for meds when the active ingredient is approved by Food and Drug Administration.

Some Reservations

In the meds, a bulk drug substance is used for compounded medication, it becomes an active ingredient in the finalized form. However, it is important to note that animal drugs compounded from bulk substances are not approved by FDA and are not reviewed for safety and efficacy. If you wish to use a compounding drug for a food-producing animal; chicken, cows, etc, please note that FDA has yet to review evidence supporting conditions of use that protect against the drug residues. It is important to be notified that there is no medically appropriate drug approved by FDA for minor species to treat animals. However, an animal drug compounded from drug substances is sometimes a medically necessary treatment.

How is Compounding for Pharmacists Regulated?

It’s regulated by both the US FDA and state governments. FDA regulates compounding as a subpart of the Extralabel Drug Use rules. It generally defers day-to-day regulation of compounding by pharmacists and veterinarians. The state boards of pharmacy overview the pharmacy practices within states and state veterinary medical boards oversee the practice of all veterinary meds including prescriptions.

Common Forms of Compound Medication for Pets

Besides pet medication for transdermal delivery, compounding pharmacists are able to convert the medications into many different forms that include but are not limited to:

Chewable Pet Treats – Compounded pet medication can allow you to serve medication in the form of a tasty treat. It makes the medication administration simple and painless. Moreover, a compounding pharmacist will add flavor to medication which makes the entire process easier.

Custom Strength Medications – Oftentimes, a commercial medication will either be too strong or weak. A compounding pharmacist will adjust the strength of your medications to suit the needs of your pet.

Sugar-Free Medication for Diabetic Pets – Compounding pharmacists are well trained for diabetic pets. The sugar-free version of any compounding medications are available if that is the unique requirement of your pet.

Transdermal PLO Gels – You can also get compounding meds in gel forms. When the compounding medication is produced in this form, the gel can be rubbed gently into the skin and gets absorbed easily into the bloodstream.

Transdermal Medication – The topical treatment is made by suspending an active ingredient of a particular medication and converting it into a gel/cream. The transdermal medication can be rubbed into the hairless area of the pet such as the inner ear, where the active ingredient can be instantly absorbed. This type of medication is ideal for pets that simply refuse to take the pills.

Oral Capsules – Oral capsules combine several ingredients and create a new form of medication. The capsules are easier to be swallowed by pets as compared to other types of medications.

Flavored Suspensions – Flavors make medications more palatable for the pet. Popular flavors for enhancing the use of pet medications include chicken, fish, banana, peanut butter, and beef.

Compounded Tablets and Chewable Forms – They come in flavored forms that are designed to dissolve on the tongue. It is ideal for pets who are too sick to swallow. Softer chews are easy to administer than the pills as compared to treats.

Types of Conditions Compounded Medications Can Treat

Certain medications are available in the form of compounding. Here are some of the most commonly used drugs and their possible treatments:

Cisapride – It is used to treat GI motility disorders in animals; dogs and cats. Compounded drugs can be included in the form of an oral capsule, transdermal forms, and oral suspension.

Methimazole – It is used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats. Many pet parents find compounded transdermal creams and oral suspensions easier to administer than oral tablets. Due to its bitter taste, many pets reject metronidazole pills into capsules, flavored suspensions, and chewable tablets.

Prednisolone – It is an anti-inflammatory drug that is used to treat a variety of pet conditions such as autoimmune disorders and allergies. Most diseases that require prednisolone treatment are chronic. Compounding allows for easier, long-term dosing.

Potassium Bromide – It is an anti-seizure medication that helps manage canine and feline epilepsy. Potassium Bromide is available in the form of tablets and liquid suspension is easier to administer as compared to the tablet forms.

Final Takeaway

Compounding is reserved for cases where existing drug options are not successful or suited to the individual needs of the pet. It is a life-saving option for pets that is difficult to medicate or when other treatment options fail.

It is important to know that compounded drugs are offered by prescription only and must be approved by a veterinarian and a pharmacist. They are not generic drugs that are approved by FDA.

Compounded preparations are not FDA-approved because the drug is essentially changed to a different form. For instance, a gel is converted to a tablet or an oral suspension or vice versa. They are not monitored by FDA. Hence, the potency, safety, and efficacy can vary drastically. The best approach is to discuss your compounding options with a veterinarian who understands the unique needs of the pet and the device to create a great action plan. We hope you found this article informative and helpful. If you have any questions, leave them down in the comments section below and we will get back to you.

Disclaimer: Please note that this article is for informational purposes only. Do not substitute it for medical advice.

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