Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About Compounded Medications
What is compounding?
Compounding is a specialized process performed by licensed professionals to create personalized medications when commercially available options do not meet a patientās specific needs. This may include unique dosages, formulas, flavors, or strengths, or in cases of a nationwide drug shortage. With a valid prescription from your healthcare provider, a compounding pharmacist or technician can prepare the medication tailored for you. Please be aware that compounded medications are not reviewed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
What is the difference between commercially available medications and compounded medications?
Commercially available medications are mass-produced by pharmaceutical manufacturers in standardized forms, strengths, dosages, and flavors intended for widespread use. These products are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In contrast, compounded medications are customized by a compounding pharmacy based on a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to meet an individual patientās specific medical needs. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. Ingredients used in compounding are selected and sourced in accordance with applicable federal and state requirements, but the finished compounded preparation is not reviewed or approved by the FDA in the same manner as an FDA-approved drug product.
Why do medications need to be compounded?
With a valid prescription from a physician, a compounding pharmacist or technician can prepare a customized strength or dosage form that is not commercially availableāsuch as creating a liquid version for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills. They can also modify the formulation to exclude non-essential ingredients like dyes, gluten, sugar, lactose, or preservatives, and add flavoring to improve taste and support medication adherence.
Do I need a prescription for a compounded medication?
Yes. Prescription compounded medications require a valid prescription from an appropriately licensed healthcare provider and are subject to pharmacist review and applicable law.
Who can write a prescription for compounded medications?
Prescriptions may be issued by licensed healthcare providers such as Medical Doctors (MD), Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Doctors of Dental Surgery (DDS), Physician Assistants (PA), Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), and Veterinary as long as it falls within their authorized scope of practice. Itās important to note that prescribing authority and limitations can vary by provider type and from state to state.
What is BUD?
BUD stands for Beyond-Use Date. It is the date after which a compounded preparation should not be used. The BUD is assigned based on the formulation, ingredients, dosage form, storage conditions, applicable compounding standards, and available stability information.
I have a compounded medication that is past its "Do Not Use Beyond" date. Is it still safe to use?
Compounded prescriptions should not be used past the labeled āDo Not Use Beyondā date. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact our pharmacy at 941-952-3959 to speak with a pharmacist.
What is the difference between Sterile and Non-Sterile Compounding?
In the compounding pharmacy field, there are distinct definitions, regulations, and licensing requirements that differentiate sterile from non-sterile compounding practices.
Non-sterile compounding, which is more commonly practiced, does not require a sterile cleanroom but still adheres to strict quality and safety guidelines. These medications are prepared in a controlled, sanitized environment and include dosage forms such as creams, ointments, gels, solutions, suspensions, suppositories, powders, capsules, troches, dissolvable tablets. They are typically administered orally or applied topically.
Sterile compounding is held to the highest standards due to the increased risk of infection. These medications are typically administered through injections, eye drops, or other routes requiring sterility. To ensure patient safety, sterile compounds must be prepared in a dedicated cleanroom environment that is free from bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. At Pharmedico Compounding Pharmacy, we DO NOT offer this service.
What compounds does Pharmedico NOT make?
Please note, we DO NOT make:
Peptides, IV nutrients or vitamins, growth hormones, Tirzepatide, Semaglutide, or other weight loss compounds.
About Pharmedico Compounding Pharmacy
Why Pharmedico?
We are a LegitScript-certified 503A compounding facility based in Sarasota, FL. Licensed in Florida, we are committed to delivering the highest quality standards in compounded medications. Our goal is to support both patients and providers by making the healthcare experience as seamless as possible through transparent flat-rate pricing, same-day delivery or next-day shipping, and fast turnaround times.
Our dedicated pharmacist oversees operations to ensure every step aligns with regulatory standards and our own rigorous protocols. With a focus on quality, precision, responsive service, and clear communication, our team works to provide a reliable and patient-centered compounding experience. Your well-being is our Mission.
What dosage forms does Pharmedico offer?
Dosage forms are compound specific. Here is a list of examples:
Oral Dosage Forms:
ā Sublingual tablet
ā Troche
ā Capsule
ā Suspension
ā Solution
ā Lollipops
Ā
Topical Dosage Forms:
ā Creams/Lotions
ā Gels
ā Ointments
ā Nasal spray
ā Otic drops
ā Suppositories
How long does it take Pharmedico to fill a prescription?
Most compounded prescriptions are prepared within 1ā2 business days after the prescription, payment, and any required information are received. Shipping or delivery time is additional.
Can Pharmedico ship my prescription to me?
Pharmedico ships non-sterile prescription medications to eligible addresses within Florida only. UPS is used for most shipments. PO boxes may require USPS and may take additional transit time.
What might cause a delay in my prescription delivery?
Several factors may cause a delay in receiving your prescription, including:
- Payment not yet received
- No refills remaining or the prescription has expired
- Awaiting authorization from your doctor
- An ingredient is currently out of stock and awaiting restock
- The compound requires special packaging and weekday delivery, with shipping limited to Monday through Wednesday
How can I fill my prescription at Pharmedico?
For new prescriptions, your doctor can either send an electronic prescription, call in to us at 941-952-3959 or fax the prescription to 941-706-4254. If you have a physical copy of the prescription, youāre welcome to bring it directly to our pharmacy.
Are Pharmedico compounded medications covered by insurance?
Pharmedico Compounding Pharmacy does not bill insurance companies directly. However, depending on your insurance plan, you may be eligible for reimbursement by submitting a claim form. Many insurance providers do NOT offer coverage for compounded medications, but we recommend contacting your insurance company to confirm the details of your specific plan. Upon request, we can provide you with a Universal Claim form to submit to your insurance carrier.
How can I get a price for my compounded prescription?
Pricing depends on the medication, strength, dosage form, quantity, ingredients, and formulation requirements. You can submit a quote request through our Get a Quote page, and our pharmacy team will review the information and provide estimated pricing.