Paediatric Compounding

Compounding is the art and science of preparing customized medications for patients. In recent years, compounding has experienced a resurgence, as many doctors are working with pharmacists to offer their patient the benefits of medicines tailored specifically for certain needs. Children are especially suited for custom compounded prescriptions as commercially manufactured drug forms are often not the best solutions for kids.

Working closely with a compounding pharmacist, your child's paediatrician can prescribe medications for pain relief, respiratory disorders, oral thrush, diabetes, head lice, nappy rash, skin disorders, cold sores/fever blisters and more. Compounding can benefit patients in a variety of ways.

Flavoured Medicines

The child who refuses to take his or her medicine because of the taste is a prime candidate for considering compounded medications. Dozens of flavours are available to compounding pharmacists, who can enhance taste and colour of a medication, while ensuring that the flavour's PH is compatible with the medication's properties. Your child won't mind taking medicine as much when it tastes like bubblegum or even chocolate.

Unique Dosage Forms

Many children have a very difficult time swallowing capsules or tablets, especially if they have to take more than one medication during the day. To solve this problem, your paediatrician and compounding pharmacist can develop and prepare medications in alternate dosage forms your child won't mind taking. These include lollipops, chewable lozenges, syrups, suspensions, ice blocks, transdermal gels and even pacifier dosages for infants - and all can be administered in any number of great flavours.

Strength Variations

Your child is unique. Children vary in size and weight. Some have allergies and varying drug tolerances. As a result, it's often a challenge to find a commercially available medication suitable for the individual needs of your child. A compounding pharmacist can be of help in formulating a medication which comes in the exact dose needed for a child of a certain age and size.

A caring pediatrician working closely with a compounding pharmacist can provide your child with the individualized specialized paediatric care he or she deserves.