Why Some Medications Need to Be Compounded: Real-Life Scenario

Not All Medications Work for Every Body

Pharmaceuticals are generally mass-produced for the majority—but there are countless situations where “standard” just isn’t suitable. Children, seniors, people with allergies or swallowing difficulties, and even patients managing chronic conditions may require a tailored solution.

Compounded medications are prepared from scratch by trained pharmacists who measure, mix, and dispense drugs according to precise requirements. It’s not a last resort—it’s a proactive, practical solution used to optimize care. At UPharmacy, we offer compounding at both our Calgary and Edmonton locations, making customized medications more accessible than ever for Albertans who need alternatives. 

A Real-Life Scenario: When Standard Meds Won’t Cut It

Let’s walk through a realistic case:

Patient: A 72-year-old woman managing arthritis and acid reflux 
Challenge: Her rheumatologist prescribed a standard anti-inflammatory medication. It works well for pain—but the pill is large and difficult to swallow. Worse, it exacerbates her reflux.

Complication: She also has multiple medication allergies, including a common dye used in tablet coatings.

What happened next? 
She visited her local UPharmacy clinic to explore alternatives.

Our pharmacists reviewed her prescription and allergies, then worked with her and her healthcare provider to compound a liquid version of the medication at a lower dose and without the triggering dye. The result? She could take her medication comfortably and safely, without causing new issues.

Other Common Reasons Compounding Is Needed

1. Swallowing Difficulties (Dysphagia)

Many seniors, stroke survivors, and patients with neurological conditions can’t swallow pills safely. Compounding allows us to convert tablets or capsules into liquids, topical creams, or even lozenges.

2. Medication Allergies or Sensitivities

Standard medications often contain dyes, preservatives, gluten, lactose, or other excipients that can trigger reactions. Compounding allows for cleaner formulations without unnecessary fillers.

3. Paediatric Use

Young children often require adjusted dosages and kid-friendly formats (such as flavoured liquids). Crushed pills or off-label dosing isn’t always accurate or safe.

4. Chronic Pain Management

Custom topical creams or transdermal formulations can deliver relief directly to the affected area—ideal for arthritis or neuropathic pain—while avoiding gastrointestinal side effects.

5. Discontinued or Unavailable Medications

Sometimes, a manufacturer stops producing a drug that still benefits a specific patient. In those cases, pharmacists can recreate the formulation if the raw ingredients are available.

At UPharmacy, we see each of these scenarios regularly. Our team doesn’t just dispense random medicine; we collaborate with patients and providers to ensure the right medication is delivered in the right way. 

Explore Your Options with Compounding at UPharmacy

If you or someone you care for struggles with standard medications, there may be a better alternative. UPharmacy’s compounding pharmacists in Calgary and Edmonton can help you explore custom formulations that align with your health needs, allergies, and preferences. Whether it’s adjusting a dose, removing allergens, or creating a new format altogether, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized compounding services.