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Q: What is compounding?
A: Simply put, compounding is any manipulation of a drug beyond that is described on the drug label. Manipulation might include mixing, diluting, concentrating, flavoring or changing a drug dosage form. Veterinary drugs should only be compounded based on a licensed veterinarian’s prescription, and to meet the medical needs of a specific patient. Examples of compounding include:
• Creating an oral suspension from crushed tablets or an injectable solution.
• Adding flavoring to a commercially available drug.
• Creating a skin-penetrating gel for a drug typically taken through other routes.
• Mixing two solutions for instilling into the ear.
Q: What are the most common compounds for pets?
A: Common examples of appropriate compounding in veterinary practice are mixing two injectable drugs, preparing an oral paste or suspension from crushed tablets or adding flavoring to a drug. One of the most common examples of compounding for animals is modifying an FDA-approved tablet or capsule into an oral suspension. Other frequently compounded preparations include cisapride (a drug that enhances gut movement), metronidazole benzoate (an antibiotic) and apomorphine (a drug used in induce vomiting).
Q: When is compounding necessary?
A: Compounding is usually necessary when an animal is suffering from medical condition and there is no FDA-approved human or veterinary product available and medically appropriate to treat the patient. The decision to use a compounded preparation must be medically necessary and made within the confines of a veterinarian-client-patient-relationship.
For example, a cat needs a medication that is only available in a pill form. If the cat’s owner is unable to administer the pill at home, the veterinarian might have the drug compounded into a flavored liquid that the cat will take.
Q: Is Creswell Health Mart Pharmacy a compounding pharmacy?
A: We are not, but our sister company River Road Health Mart Pharmacy in Eugene is a compounding pharmacy. We work with them to get your compound made and delivered back to our store in Creswell for easy pick up or delivery.
If you currently have a compounded medication (human or pet) and would like more information about our compounding services, billing and prices just give us a call. Our pharmacists would be happy to any of your questions. We can be reached at 541-895-2413, Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also, visit our website at http://www.oregonhealthmart.com, www.oregonhealthmart.com for more information.
Sources:
https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQs/Pages/Compounding-FAQ-for-Pet, www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQs/Pages/Compounding-FAQ-for-Pet-Owners.aspx
https://www.wedgewoodpetrx.com/blog/posts/top-15-compounded-veterinary-medications-for-companion-animals-and-horses.
