What Types of Compounded Dosage Forms Exist?

Oral

Oral Capsules and Liquids

A useful option for getting the exact dosage needed while avoiding unwanted dyes and fillers.

• Cellulose capsules are available and are dye-free.
• Compounded oral liquids can be prepared in a wide range of flavors, such as tutti-frutti or vanilla, for patients who cannot swallow pills.

Mixable

Effervescent Powders

A helpful form for large doses of an active ingredient, or when the active ingredient is unstable in water.

• Allows for faster dissolution, so the medication can be taken soon after mixing.
• Can offer better palatability.

Skin Delivery

Transdermals

Transdermal gels and creams are specially prepared emulsions that penetrate the skin and can deliver medication through the skin.

• May be helpful for patients who cannot swallow medication.
• Can be designed for local or systemic effects.

Oral

Lollipops

Compounded lollipops may offer local or systemic effects depending on the medication and intended treatment.

• Local uses may include anesthetic, antifungal, antiviral, or anti-inflammatory support.
• Systemic uses may include anti-anxiety, pain relief, smoking deterrent, cough suppressant, or antihistamine therapy.

Mouth

Troches, Tablet Triturates, and Sublingual Drops

Troches allow for buccal absorption or can be used for topical treatment in the mouth.

• Often used for hormone replacement therapy, nausea, vitamin B12 deficiency, sexual dysfunction, or antifungal treatment.

Fast Release

Rapid Dissolve Tablets

Placed directly on the tongue and designed to dissolve in approximately 30 seconds.

• Allows for quick and easy release of medication.

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Rectal

Suppositories, Enemas, and Rectal Rockets

Ideal for patients who have difficulty swallowing, are experiencing nausea or vomiting, or cannot take oral medications.

• Avoid the pain associated with injections and other subcutaneous formulations.
• May offer rapid local effects through analgesic, anti-inflammatory, or steroidal properties.
• Rectal rockets are designed to deliver the drug directly to the site of action.
• Can help hold the drug at the site for an extended period, allowing for better absorption.

Topical

Topical Creams, Ointments, and Gels

Topical preparations can be customized for the medication and intended use.

• Creams can be formulated as water-in-oil or oil-in-water emulsions.
• Ointments can be prepared in anhydrous vehicles like PEG or petroleum jelly.

Oral Care

Oral Mouthwashes and Rinses

Oral mouthwashes and rinses can be compounded for treatment needs in the mouth or throat when directed by a prescriber.

• Can be customized around treatment goals, tolerability, and prescriber direction.