The short answer
Compounding is when a pharmacy prepares a medicine for one patient, following a doctor’s prescription. Instead of taking a box off the shelf, the pharmacy mixes the ingredients in the form and strength that person needs.
When it helps
- A strength that isn’t sold. The doctor wants a dose that doesn’t come ready-made.
- A different form. A liquid or a cream for someone who can’t swallow pills, like a small child or an older adult.
- Without an ingredient. A version without a dye or another ingredient the person can’t take.
What it is not
Because it is made for one person, a compounded medicine is not mass-produced, and it is not an FDA-approved product the way factory-made medicine is. That is why it always starts with a prescription, and why it is prepared by the pharmacy with care.
How to ask at Arturito’s
Arturito’s has its own compounding room. Bring your prescription or ask your doctor to send it. We tell you if we can prepare it, how long it takes and how much it costs, before we start. See our compounding service.
Storing it
Follow the label. Some compounded medicines go in the refrigerator, and all of them have a date to use them by, usually shorter than factory medicine. If you are not sure, call us.
Short answers
Is compounded medicine FDA-approved?
No. It is prepared for one person from a doctor’s prescription, so it is not an FDA-approved product like factory-made medicine.
Can any medicine be compounded?
No. It depends on the ingredients and the form. We tell you if we can prepare yours.
How should I store it?
Follow the label. Some need the refrigerator, and all have a date to use them by.
Questions? Talk to Arturo.
In English or Spanish: at the counter, by phone or on WhatsApp.