Locating Naturally Compounded Prescriptions Without Going Far

Imagine you are allergic to a dye commonly found in various types of medications. Your doctor has given you a prescription for a hormone called progesterone, but the product contains the irritating dye.

Instead of settling for a similar medication (which may not be as effective), your prescription can be reformulated by a pharmacist trained in compounding. This will enable you to take the correct medication as prescribed by your doctor, but with the allergic component eliminated so it can be utilized safely.

Compounding is a unique method of preparing medication. A specially trained pharmacist tailors the drug to the specific needs of each patient. Unlike commercial prepared medications, which come only in certain dosages or include unwanted ingredients, compounding offers a broader palette of options.

Pharmacist Tara Fricke of Emerson Pharmacy & Gift Shoppe is most definitely a think "out of the box" pharmacist. Providing naturally compounded prescriptions for 10 years, she became fascinated with the possibilities offered by the process after graduating from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2001.

She brought the topic to the attention of Kurt D'Alessandro, owner of Emerson Pharmacy & Gift Shoppe, and he agreed that this essential (but difficult to find) service was well worth exploring further.

As Fricke dons a protective mask (to prevent her from inhaling the fine particles used in compounding) she says, "We provide an incredible range of medications that are used for such a wide variety of patients."

From compounding transdermal medications (those absorbed via the skin) to sugar free prescriptions specially designed for children with autism, Emerson Pharmacy offers a much needed alternative for so very many.

"I work with doctors from many different fields of medicine," Fricke explains. "Gynecologists, pediatricians, orthopedic specialists, as well as with veterinarians." Oradell Animal Hospital is one facility which relies on Fricke to compound medications for animal patients, as well as Park Ridge Animal Hospital.

Medications can use meat-flavored bouillon to lure sick (but finicky) pets, or with flavorful sugar-free ingredients to make them easier for children to take.

People suffering from diabetes often have complications involving the feet and legs, such as diabetic neuropathy. A podiatrist might prescribe a medication for a diabetic patient, with the proviso that the sugar (or some other ingredients) be removed. In such a case, compounding is the answer.

"We can offer the patient choices," Fricke continues. "Many medications only come in two or three strengths. When a patient is prescribed a dose that is not commercially prepared, often it is impossible for them to adjust the dose themselves. No one can cut a capsule into thirds...so we do it for them."

In addition, for a great many women who are experiencing menopause-related symptoms (night sweats, forgetfulness, exhaustion, sleeplessness, depression and sexual dysfunction), Hormone Replacement Therapies (HRT) are frequently prescribed.

But given the possibility of dangerous side affects which can be caused by synthetically produced, commercial hormones, a growing population of women are opting instead for naturally compounded hormone therapy (bio-identical hormones).

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): "bio-identical" hormones are defined as "plant-derived hormones that are biochemically similar or identical to those produced by the ovary or body."

While many gynecologists are accustomed to prescribing synthetic hormone replacement, the majority are not experts in natural compounding. That's where Tara Fricke comes in.

"I consult privately with women who want to utilize naturally compounded hormones," Fricke explains. "I study their blood test and/or saliva test results and create a plan specifically based on what they need."

Fricke will speak with the patient's gynecologist to make sure everyone is on the same page, helping to establish the most viable treatment plan.

"But it's still essential that patients continue to visit their regular health care practitioners," Fricke continues. "I always insist that women see their gynecologists and get all the preventative tests recommended.”

While many women have no choice but to travel far from home to locate hormone replacement that is naturally compounded, those fortunate enough to live in this area have a very unique and helpful service right in their own backyard.

For more information, visit the Emerson Pharmacy & Gift Shoppe website or call 201-262-4999.