Frequently Asked Questions
If you can not find the specific answers to questions not listed below, please feel free to reach out to us and one of our team members will be more than happy to assist you!
What is compounding?
Compounding is a specialized pharmacy practice that involves preparing a medication tailored to specific needs of a patient. Compounding can be only performed when a commercially approved drug cannot meet the patient’s specific needs and in special circumstances such as drug shortages recognized by the FDA.
What is the difference between a 503A pharmacy and a 503B pharmacy?
503A pharmacies will compound a medication pursuant to receiving a prescription for a patient to prepare the patient specific formulation customized for the patient. They are regulated by the State Board of Pharmacy of the state that they have a license in. 503B pharmacies are wholesale drug manufacturers and compound large quantities of compounded medications as opposed to be patient specific. They are overseen by the FDA.
How do I know if I need a compounded medication?
Your healthcare provider will determine if a compounded medication is necessary based on your specific medical needs. Our team regularly collaborates with providers and patients to customize medications to meet the patient’s special needs.
How do I get a prescription for a compounded medication?
You need a prescription from your healthcare provider. Our team at Rancho Park Pharmacy can guide your provider how to write a compounded prescription.
How do you ensure the quality of the compounded medications?
At Rancho Park Pharmacy we continuously validate our process. Sterile products compounded for more than one patient are sent to a 3rd party analytical lab for end product testing before dispensing. Most sterile products are checked for potency before dispensing.
Are compounded medications FDA approved?
Compounded medications are not FDA approved.
Who should I call for consultation services?
You should call our pharmacists at Rancho Park Pharmacy for questions regarding your compounded medication and or reporting an adverse reaction.
How do I receive my compounded medication when it is ready?
Rancho Park Pharmacy will ship your medication to your home and the courier company usually delivers your order the next day. If you are local, you can always pick up your medication from the pharmacy at your convenience.
What is a BUD?
Beyond use date. This is the date or date and time after which administration of a compounded drug shall not begin. The beyond use date can be found on the container of your compounded medication.
Can I use my compounded drug after the specified “Beyond Use Date?”
No. You should contact the pharmacy and speak with one of our pharmacists about any questions you have related to your compounded medication.
Does Rancho Park Pharmacy compound IV nutrients and vitamins?
No, unfortunately not at this time.
