1) What is compounding?

- Pharmacy compounding is the art and science of preparing customized medications for patients. It's practice dates back to the origins of pharmacy, yet compounding’s presence in the pharmacy profession has changed over the years. In the 1930s and '40s, approximately 60% of all medications were compounded. With the advent of drug manufacturing in the 1950s and ‘60s, compounding rapidly declined. The pharmacist’s role as one who prepares medications quickly changed to that of a dispenser of manufactured dosage forms (i.e. taking pills from a big bottle and putting them in a little bottle). Within the last two decades, though, compounding has experienced a resurgence as modern technology and innovative techniques and research have allowed more pharmacists to customize medications to meet specific patient needs.

2) Why did my doctor order a compounded medication?

- There are several reasons why your doctor may have ordered a compounded medication. Every patient is unique, and sometimes the products, strengths, and dosage forms that are commercially available are not the best choice for an individual. Sometimes a custom-made medication may be the most effective treatment (and possibly most affordable) option. Many patients are allergic to preservatives or dyes, or are sensitive to standard drug strengths. With a physician’s consent, a compounding pharmacist can change the strength of a medication, alter it's form to make it easier for the patient to ingest, or add flavor to make it more palatable. The compounding pharmacist can also prepare the medication using several unique delivery systems, such as a sublingual troches or lozenges, lollipops, or a topical gel/cream that can be absorbed through the skin. For those patients who are having a difficult time swallowing a tablet or capsule, a compounding pharmacist can make a liquid suspension instead.

3) Why can't I fill this medication at my regular pharmacy?

- Most regular retail pharmacies are not adequately set up to make customized medications. In order to compound anything beyond mixing a couple of creams together, a pharmacy needs to have expertly trained staff, specialized pharmacy equipment, specific software, and the required ingredients and chemicals to make your custom medication. As compounding experts, we at InHealth Specialty Pharmacy employ all these tools to ensure we are dispensing the highest quality products.

3) How much is my medication going to cost?

- Prices will vary and will depend on which ingredients are used in the compound and the amount of time it takes to mix it up. Every medication we mix up is custom-made at our pharmacy, please call us and we would be happy to give you a quote today!

4) Will my insurance cover my medication?

- They might! Call us today with your insurance information and prescription information and we will be able to give you a better idea on insurance coverage.

5) Do I need a prescription to purchase a compounded medication?

- Yes, all medications we compound, require a prescription from a licensed healthcare practitioner.

6) How quickly can my medication be ready?

- Most medications are ready within 1-2 days. As a courtesy, we call all of our patients once their medication is completed.

7) Do you offer mail out and delivery services?

- Yes, we can mail medications out to ND, MN, SD, & WI, the cost is $3.50. We also offer delivery services to the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area. The cost for delivery is also $3.50.

** Our highly trained, and friendly pharmacists are happy to answer any other questions you may have, so please don't hesitate to call us at (701) 365-6050 or (866) 365-6050. Thank you.