FAQ's


 

When is compounding appropriate?

Route of administration

A medication may only be commercially available as an oral or injectable product but we can often simplify home administration for someone who is NPO by compounding an alternate route of administration, such as a transdermal gel.

Combination of medications

It is often possible to combine several medications into a single oral dosage form, such as a capsule, troche, or a transdermal cream/gel, or a suppository.

Flavoring

Often, we find that terminally ill patients are unable to tolerate sweetness, but would prefer a medication that is flavored like coffee, for example. We can flavor each medication to suit the individual’s palate, and eliminate aftertastes.

Dosage modification

We can compound a medication that contains the most appropriate strength of medication to provide therapeutic benefit and avoid/minimize adverse effects.

Dosage form

Can be altered to meet the patient’s need. Suppose it is most desirable to continue oral administration but the patient has difficulty swallowing. With consideration given to particle size, solubility, and stability, we can properly compound a solution or suspension. How about a freeze-pop or lollipop? These are particularly useful when it is desirable to prolong medication contact with the oral cavity

 

What is the legal support for compounding?

The FDA recognizes compounding as viable and legal. As practicing medicine is a combination of science and art, compounding allows health care practitioners to be creative while adhering to FDA regulations.
Congress listed 3 criteria for using pharmaceutical ingredients in compounding:

 

  • The pharmaceutical ingredient is a component of an FDA approved product.
  • The pharmaceutical ingredient has a USP/NF monograph.
  • The pharmaceutical ingredient is published on a list of ingredients approved for use in compounding.

When considering pharmaceutical ingredients FDA would consult with USP and the FDA advisory committee and use the following criteria:

 

  • The chemical characterization of the substance;
  • The safety of the substance;
  • The historical use of the substance in pharmacy compounding;
  • The available evidence of the substance’s effectiveness or lack of effectiveness, if any such evidence exists.

 

Do I need a prescription for a compounded formulation?

Yes, a prescription is required both for general compounded formulations and for the hormonal ones. HMCS prepares customized dosage forms for individual patients upon the request of a licensed practitioner.

 

How do I get my prescription order to you?

Your health care practitioner
Can call us at:
(888)674-BHRT
Fax to us @ (800) 419-2801
E-mail us at:
info@hmcompound.com
Or mail us at: HMCompound 2478 McDonald Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11223
with the prescription order and patient information.

You (the patient) can mail or fax your prescription order and patient information to us as well.

You or your health care practitioner may also fill the forms on our website for majority of the formulations and then fax them to us.

 

When do I get my medication at home?

As soon as we receive your prescription order and patient information, we prepare the compounded medication and send it to you by mail. We ship USPS, UPS and FedEx.

For a prompt and efficient service we’ll need your correct and complete information: name, address, phone number, email (if you have one) and your insurance information so we fill the insurance claim form for you whenever possible.

 

How much will the medication cost and how do I pay for it?

Because you’ll have a customized formulation, cost will vary depending on the type of medication you need and the dosage. In most cases the price is lower than traditional therapy options.

Your prescription is probably covered by your insurance. Please contact us for a price quote on custom compounded medications. We’ll provide you with the insurance claim form if you’d like to request reimbursement from your insurance company.

Once you know the price you may pay on the phone with your credit card or by mail with money order, check or credit card number provided.

Your medication will be shipped the same day we receive the prescription order and the payment.