What Does a Compounding Chemist Do?

Long ago, compounding chemists were very common. Obtaining medications wasn’t as convenient as it is today. Nothing was mass produced. Everything had to be handled by a skilled individual who possessed a deep understanding of the medicinal properties of natural and manmade ingredients. Ancient cultures turned to compounding for a variety of reasons, including personal grooming, religious practises, wellness and treating illnesses.

The Modern Compounding Chemist

The modern compounding chemist maintains the spirit of their forebears, however they have access to superior equipment, knowledge and ingredients. Their job is still much the same, but they are better prepared to provide prescriptions that treat many ailments with far greater success.

The basic job of a compounding chemist is to combine the ingredients needed to produce a medication. They still require an actual prescription from a medical doctor just like a non-compounding pharmacy. They work from recipes and determine which ingredients will produce the best results. Modern compounding chemists can make medications for men, women, children and pets.

Compounding vs. Mass Production

Mass producing a product sounds convenient, but it has many drawbacks. When an item like a medication is created in large quantities, it leaves little room for adjustments. Each pill or liquid is made exactly the same so it treats a broad group of patients rather than honing in on the individual health needs of each person.

Compounding chemists can produce a prescription that won’t cause the same side effects as a similar mass produced medication. That’s because they can remove the ingredient that causes the reaction.

The chemist can also provide different formats and flavours so the patient receives a medication that’s easy for them to take. For example, a mass produced medication may only be available in a pill format. The compounding chemist may be able to provide pills as well as liquids, sprays. Lozenges - even lollipops for children. Some may also offer different flavours that can be added based on the patient’s preferences.

Accessibility of Compounding Chemists

Mass produced medications may be more locally accessible in some communities, but compounding chemists are making their services much easier to find. Patients can now submit prescriptions to online pharmacies and have their medications shipped to their home. This service is available throughout Australia so no travel is required. Patients can find compounding chemists that serve their area by searching online or talking to their doctor.

iCompound are New South Wales based online Compounding Chemists. As qualified compounding chemists they are able to tailor medications to suit a person's individual needs and with a doctor's consent can change the colour, flavour, strength and delivery method, making the drug easier to take and more palatable. Just send your prescription to iCompound, they will make it and deliver it to your door.

Visit them at www.icompound.com.au to learn more or place an order.

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