Veterinary Compounding
Problem, Meet Solution
Cats are notorious for refusing to swallow pills (you probably have the scratches to prove it), and they’ll usually eat right around one disguised in food. Administration can be equally tricky with dogs — a dose of medication that is therapeutic for an 80-pound Golden Retriever could be deadly for a six-pound Yorkie. Large and exotic pets, such as horses, rabbits, birds, ferrets and reptiles, all pose a variety of different medication challenges, too. But the solution is often the same for them all: veterinary compounding.
In Good Taste
Compounding is ideal for pets that won't take medication because of the taste. Cats don't like pills, but they do like tuna. Dogs aren't wild about medication being squirted into their mouths, but they'll take it gladly when it's meat-flavored or part of a tasty biscuit or treat. Birds can't take large volumes of liquid medication, but they'll open wide for a small dose of a tasty, fruit-flavored, concentrated solution.
Just like their owners, pets are unique. They come in all shapes and sizes.
Right-Sizing
Just like their owners, pets are unique. They come in all shapes and sizes, and may be sensitive to ingredients like lactose. It makes sense that commercially available medicines aren't always appropriate for each and every pet. But with compounding, your veterinarian can prescribe a treat, liquid or other dosage form with the exact ingredients, flavor and dose that's right for your pet.
To Be Continued
Sometimes, manufacturers discontinue a veterinary medication because there’s not enough demand to make mass production cost effective. But that does not mean there aren’t still pets that need it. When a medication that has worked well for your pet isn’t commercially available, a compounding pharmacist can prepare a prescription and tailor the strength, dosage form, and flavor to meet your pet’s specific needs.
The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by Medicine Shoppe pharmacists. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply. * The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.