Pediatrics

Children pose many challenges when it comes to medication: they may resist having to take a medication, dislike the taste or texture, have difficulty swallowing solid dosage forms, and are fearful of injections.

The limited pediatric market for most drugs may be the leading reason for the lack of investment in drug development for this population by the pharmaceutical industry. Most medications are not labeled for pediatric populations, and when a medication is not approved for use in infants and children, it usually is not available in a suitable pediatric dosage form. Fortunately, our compounding pharmacy is able to help. We can compound oral medications into pleasantly flavored suspensions, solutions, concentrates, freezerpops, “gummy bears” or lozenges, in colors that entice the child to take the medication. A palatable formulation is more likely to improve compliance and minimize spillage or waste during administration. Lollipops are an ideal alternative to “swish and swallow” medications that need to be retained in the mouth for a prolonged period of time. Most drugs can be compounded into transdermal gels that can easily be applied to an appropriate site, such as the child’s wrist, for absorption through the skin.

Professional compounding is not just diluting existing medications, or mixing powders with bases. We must consider physical and chemical properties of each active and inactive ingredient in order to prepare an effective and safe customized medication with the desired taste, color, fragrance, viscosity, uniformity, texture, and stability. The efficacy of any compounded medication is influenced by the technique and equipment used in preparing the formulation, the purity and quality of the ingredients, choice of vehicle (base), and proper use of additives such as penetration enhancers.