SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) Most consumers know how a traditional pharmacy works. Far fewer are aware of an alternative option: a compounding pharmacy. Here’s everything you need to know about these specialized healthcare facilities, and how they have the potential to improve your wellness.

What is a compounding pharmacy? A compounding pharmacy employs the art and science of creating personalized medications based on a patient’s specific requirements, ensuring an individualized approach to healthcare.

“The conventional, mass-produced, one-size-fits-all approach to medication unfortunately does not work for all patients. Compounded medications however can help ensure patients get the therapies they need safely,” says Shaun Noorian, CEO and founder of Empower Pharmacy, a compounding pharmacy that specializes in men’s health, women’s health, dermatology, hormone replacement, weight management, IV therapy, longevity, sexual wellness, mental health and gender affirming care.

Why is this important? Compounded medications are crafted to address individual requirements, such as allergies to certain ingredients, dosage adjustments, or the need for alternative forms of medication (for example, needing a liquid instead of a pill form). In short, compounded medications deliver therapy required for individuals to live healthier, happier lives in a form that can optimize their care. These medications can also play a vital role in addressing challenges related to FDA-approved prescription medication shortages.

How common are compound pharmacies? Compounding pharmacies make up 2% of the current pharmaceutical market, but that figure is growing as more patients and providers grasp the benefits that compounded medicines provide.

How does this change the role of the pharmacist? Pharmacists have always been an important part of patients’ care teams, dispensing medications and offering advice on side effects and dosing. At a compounding pharmacy, that role also includes producing customized prescription drugs for patients, most often from raw ingredients.

Are compounding pharmacies within reach for regular patients? Some compounding pharmacies are working to prioritize access. Empower Pharmacy, for example, provides medications at an affordable cost in an effort to ensure everyone has access to the treatments they need. And because the pharmacy operates online, patients with mobility and transportation issues are able to fill their prescriptions from the comfort of home.

Are there any safety issues to be aware of? Compounded medications are not FDA-approved, making it important for patients to stick to trustworthy pharmacies that use safe compounding practices. Be sure your pharmacy has Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) accreditation.

To learn more, visit empowerpharmacy.com.

“We believe that understanding the nuances of compounding, its benefits, and its role during FDA-approved shortages helps equip patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare,” says Noorian.

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