What is one common reason for compounding medications?

Compounding medications is often performed to customize therapy for an individual patient. This practice allows pharmacists to tailor medications specifically to meet the unique needs, preferences, or circumstances of a patient. For example, a compounded medication can be adjusted for specific dosages, forms (liquid, cream, or capsules), or even to avoid specific allergens or inactive ingredients that a patient may be sensitive to.

This personalized approach is crucial in cases where commercially available medications do not provide the necessary dosage or form, or when a patient requires a medication that is no longer manufactured. Such customization ensures that patients receive the most effective and safe treatment options suited to their individual health conditions.

While there are other reasons for compounding, such as creating bulk products or attempting to address pricing, the primary focus in pharmacy practice is often on the individualization of therapy to improve patient outcomes.