What is the definition of drug compounding?

The definition of drug compounding refers to the combining of two or more ingredients, with at least one being a drug. Compounding is a specialized practice in pharmacy and veterinary medicine that allows veterinarians and pharmacists to create customized medications to meet the unique needs of individual patients. This practice is essential in instances where commercially available drugs do not adequately address the specific requirements of an animal patient, such as in cases of allergies to certain ingredients, altered dosages, or specific delivery forms that are not available on the market.

The emphasis on having at least one drug in the mixture underlines the concept that compounding is not just about mixing any ingredients; it is fundamentally about creating a medicinal product tailored for therapeutic use, adhering to both safety and efficacy standards. This understanding is crucial for veterinarians and veterinary technicians when they navigate the complexities of medication management for their patients.