Personalised medicines, prepared for individual needs
Sometimes, standard medicines don’t quite fit or exist. Compounding is the personalised preparation of medicines designed to better suit individual needs when off-the-shelf options aren’t suitable.
What is compounding?
Compounding is about creating medicines that work for you. It may involve adjusting a dose, changing how a medicine is taken, or removing certain ingredients – all to better suit individual needs. Compounded medicines can support people at all stages of life, from children and older adults to those with sensitivities, complex needs, or even our beloved pets!
When might compounding be helpful?
Compounding may be an option when standard medicines don’t fully meet your needs, including when:
- A specific dose or formulation is needed
- Tablets or capsules are difficult to swallow
- Certain ingredients need to be avoided due to allergies or sensitivities
- A medicine is unavailable or no longer manufactured
- Treatment needs to be personalised to support better outcomes
Examples of conditions supported through compounding
Depending on individual needs and prescriber advice, compounded medicines may assist people managing conditions such as:
- Chronic pain
- Menopause and perimenopause
- Hormone imbalances
- Thyroid conditions, including Hashimoto’s disease
- Eczema and psoriasis
- Acne
- Reflux and gastrointestinal sensitivities
- Paediatric dosing or formulation needs
- Sleep support (e.g. melatonin)
This is not an exhaustive list, and suitability will depend on individual circumstances and prescriber direction.
Why choose Complete Care pharmacies for compounding?
At Complete Care Pharmacy, our approach is centred around people, not just prescriptions. Our pharmacists take the time to understand your needs and work closely with your prescriber to ensure your medicine suits your needs. As part of your local community pharmacy, we offer continuity, trusted advice, and a personalised approach – supporting you throughout your treatment, not just at the point of supply.
How to order a compounded medicine
Compounded medicines are ordered the same way as any other prescription. Simply submit your prescription to the pharmacy and our team will arrange for it to be prepared.
Over-the-counter compounded products
Complete Care Pharmacies also offer a range of over-the-counter compounded
products that do not require a prescription. Availability may vary by location, and your
pharmacist can advise whether a compounded product is suitable for you.
These products do not require a prescription
Quality, care and professional standards
At Complete Care Pharmacies, compounding is carried out by trained pharmacy professionals following strict quality and safety standards. Each compounded medicine is prepared with care, and attention to detail, ensuring it meets professional and regulatory requirements.
Speak with your local Complete Care pharmacist to learn more and find out whether compounding is suitable for you.
Important Information
Availability may vary by location. This service is available at selected Complete Care Pharmacy locations. Please contact your local pharmacy for more information.
Compounding Locations
Compounding - FAQs
What is pharmacy compounding?
Pharmacy compounding is the process of customising medications to meet the specific needs of patients.
It involves combining, mixing, or altering pharmaceutical ingredients to create personalised medications that are not commercially available.
When can compounding help?
Pharmacy compounding can help when a patient requires a medication that is not available in the desired strength, dosage form, or contains certain inactive ingredients that the patient may be allergic to.
What types of medications are commonly compounded?
Compounding can be applied to various types of medications, including creams and ointments, capsules and oral liquids, and many more.
Who can perform pharmacy compounding?
Trained and licensed pharmacists, or pharmacy technicians under the supervision of a pharmacist, are responsible for performing pharmacy compounding.
At Complete Care, all compounding is completed under strict adherence to guidelines and regulations.
Why do people choose compounded medications over commercially available ones?
Many people opt for compounded medications when they have allergies to specific ingredients in commercial products, require custom dosage strengths, or when a medication has been discontinued by manufacturers.
How much does compounding cost?
The cost of compounded medicines can vary depending on the ingredients, preparation required, and whether a prescription is needed. Your pharmacist will discuss any costs with you before your medicine is prepared, so you understand what to expect.
Are compounded medicines more expensive than standard medicines?
Compounded medicines are individually prepared and may involve specialised ingredients or processes, which can affect pricing. Your pharmacist can talk through the benefits, costs, and suitability of compounding to help you make an informed decision.