Compounding is a way of mixing or combining medications in formulations that are not widely available. Because dermatology is a field that includes a variety of topical treatments, compounding topicals is a way to create unique and customized treatment options for patients.

Compounding topical medications is a way for dermatologists to prescribe customized topical treatment options based on the individualized needs of patients. However, there are limited data on the safety of compounded medications and potential systemic absorption. Additionally, there also are limited data on the efficacy of compounded medications given their unique nature.

Every person has their own skin type and preferences, and compounding allows your physician and pharmacist to work together to create the best product for your skincare needs without losing any of their effectiveness.

What are the benefits of dermatology compounding?

The use of compounding to tailor medications to each individual allows for flexibility in the way a product is made, which can offer several benefits:

• A customized approach to delivery – there are many reasons why someone may prefer one type of product, like a gel, over another, like a lotion, and medication is only effective if the patient uses it, so sometimes, this tailored approach comes down to personal preference.
• Allergies or sensitivities – some patients or may have allergies or sensitivities, and compounded medications can be made without certain ingredients or unnecessary additives and preservatives.
• Dosing – compounded medications can provide the best dose, one that will deliver the needed benefit with a reduced risk of side effects.
• Specialized formulations – some patients require a unique blend of ingredients to achieve the results they are looking for, and dermatology compounding provides the personalization so these goals can be achieved.

What are conditions can be treated?

Dermatology compounding products come in a variety of formulations to treat different conditions. Some of these products are topical formulations, such as creams, lotions, ointments, gels, sprays, solutions, and foams that can be used on the skin to treat various conditions, including:

• Acne
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Rosacea
• Warts
• Scarring
• Sunburns
• Wrinkles and aging
• Blisters
• Vitiligo
• Diaper rash
• Nail fungus

Medicated shampoos and lip balms are other common formulations that can be compounded to meet a specific need.

Disadvantages of compounding a dermatological medicine:

• One of the major disadvantages of compounding topical medications is the lack of safety data. Although most active drugs have been tested independently, there is little data on the safety of compounding two or more active drugs. Furthermore, the vehicle used may change the permeability of the topical formulation, and systemic absorption may be possible.
• One of the hypothetical benefits of compounding topicals is avoiding the side effects of systemic medications. However, depending on the skin’s intactness and the strength of the medication used, systemic adverse effects have been reported.
• Another major disadvantage of compounding topicals is a lack of published data about the efficacy, especially given the compound’s unique nature. When combining multiple medications, there is little to no published data about the efficacy of these formulations and how they compare to monotherapy.
• Finally, many compounded medications are not covered by insurance, and the out-of-pocket cost may be prohibitive for some patients.

Endpoint:

Compounding topical medications in dermatology allow dermatologists to provide unique formulations to best suit their patients’ individual needs. However, dermatologists must keep in mind the limitations of compounding topicals, including a lack of data on efficacy and safety.