Compounding pharmacies create custom medications tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Unlike commercially manufactured drugs, which are mass-produced in fixed strengths and forms, compounded medications are made specifically for an individual based on a prescriber’s order. This allows for greater flexibility in treatment—whether that means adjusting the dose, changing the delivery method, avoiding allergens, or adding flavors to improve tolerability.

Compounded medications are prepared in pharmacy labs using raw pharmaceutical ingredients. Based on the provider’s prescription, they can be formulated in a wide range of dosage forms to support personalized care. Below are some of the most common dosage forms offered by compounding pharmacies:

Compounded capsules are an oral dosage form that can be made in custom strengths, combinations, or base material types. This is especially helpful for patients who need a dosage that isn’t available commercially, have allergies to certain inactive ingredients, or require multiple medications combined into one capsule. Oral capsules are taken by mouth and absorbed through the digestive system.

Topical formulations are applied to the skin and can be customized based on texture, absorption rate, and the specific condition being treated. Compounding allows providers to choose from creams, ointments, or gels depending on the desired application and drug delivery needs. These are often used for hormone therapies, dermatologic concerns, or localized pain relief.

Liquid medications are commonly prescribed for children, older adults, veterinary uses, or patients who have difficulty swallowing capsules or tablets. Compounded oral suspensions and solutions can be flavored and adjusted for dose and concentration. In some cases, they may also be designed for buccal absorption—meaning the patient holds the medication in the mouth so it can be absorbed through the oral tissues rather than the digestive tract. This may allow for quicker absorption depending on the medication and formulation.

Troches and lozenges dissolve slowly in the mouth and can allow for absorption through the oral mucosa. This form is often used when medications need a faster onset than oral capsules or when patients are unable to swallow pills. These can be flavored in a variety of ways and are commonly used in hormone therapy, pain management, or nausea treatment.

Suppositories are solid dosage forms intended for rectal or vaginal administration. They may be used when oral administration isn’t possible or when local delivery is preferred. Suppositories melt and absorb through either vaginal or rectal tissue and can be customized in strength and base to suit the individual patient and therapeutic goal.

Nasal sprays and drops provide medication through the nasal passages and may be used for localized or systemic delivery. This route may be recommended by a provider when fast absorption is needed, or when a more direct route is clinically appropriate.

One of the key advantages of compounding is flexibility—allowing for unique dosage forms that may not be available commercially. Other examples include:

• Medicated lollipops or gummies, especially for pediatric patients
• Rapid-dissolve tablets for quick administration without swallowing
• Transdermal gels or sticks for systemic absorption through the skin
• Chewable veterinary treats, which may be flavored for better acceptance by pets

Some compounding pharmacies, like Hillstone Pharmacy, offer a wide range of dosage forms (including oral, topical, transdermal, sterile, and veterinary preparations ) to support individualized care.

These dosage forms are just one example of how compounding allows for personalized care. Unlike commercial pharmacies, compounded medications can be tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient — including how the medication is delivered. Learn more about how compounding differs from commercial pharmacies.