​Capsules

Medication can be compounded into customised capsules, especially in cases where an alternative strength is required or to omit potential allergens or irritants, such as dyes, preservatives, or gluten.  To lessen the number of doses to be taken, multiple medications can often be combined into a single dosage or made into sustained-release capsules.  Vegetarian capsules made from cellulose are available for patients who do not want to take a gelatin capsule.

Oral Liquids/Suspensions

Many medications can be compounded as oral liquids for those patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets and capsules.  Some patients may have problems tolerating the taste of a commercially available liquid, but a compounding pharmacist can make a pleasant-tasting, custom-flavoured oral solution or suspension which can be administered easily and accurately.  Some medications may be available as effervescent powders, which are mixed with water to make a fizzy drink.

Troches

Troches are used to keep drugs in the mouth when local is needed there.  Troches may also be placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve, which allows the medication to enter the bloodstream quickly and easily.  For some patients this ideal dosage form is beneficial for Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy patients.  Some troches can be chewed and swallowed by a patient who cannot or will not take a capsule or tablet.  These dosage forms can be enhanced with natural sweeteners and pleasant-tasting flavours, making them ideal for geriatric and paediatric patients.

Topical Preparations

Topical methods of delivery also are widely used because they allow the absorption of medicine directly through the skin, and may help avoid potential side effects such as stomach upset or drowsiness.  Topical medications often are prescribed for skin problems, anti-aging treatment, pain management, inflammation and nausea/vomiting.  They are easy to use and are effective in delivering the medication as needed.  Topical medication forms include gels, creams and lotions, sprays, foams and stick applicators such as lip balms.

Suppositories

Patients who cannot take medications orally are ideal candidates for compounded suppositories.  Available in various shapes depending on the route of administration, suppositories can be given rectally and/or vaginally.  By melting or dissolving into the body cavity, they allow the medication to pass quickly into the bloodstream.  They can be used for bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), to fight nausea, or to treat local conditions such as haemorrhoids, infections, or inflammation.

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