compounding

thumb|Pharmacist compounding a medication using a mortar and pestle ()

In the field of pharmacy, compounding (performed in a compounding pharmacy) is preparation of custom medications to fit unique needs of patients that cannot be met with mass-produced formulations. This may be done, for example, to provide medication in a form easier for a given patient to ingest (e.g., liquid vs. tablet), to avoid a non-active ingredient a patient is allergic to, or to provide an exact dose that isn't otherwise available. This kind of patient-specific compounding, according to a prescriber's specifications, is referred to as "traditional" compounding. The nature of patient need for such customization can range from absolute necessity (e.g., avoiding allergy) to individual optimality (e.g., ideal dose level) to preference (e.g., flavor or texture).