What is pharmacy compounding?
Compounding is the art and science of custom making prescription medications specifically for patients and their unique needs. The pharmaceutical industry offers a one-size-fits-all approach to medicine. Compounding offers alternative treatment options that can help improve patient outcomes.
Compounding is a great option for people who:
- Have allergies to common mass-produced fillers (lactose, gluten, dyes, etc.)
- Need customized medication strengths (children or the elderly)
- Need unique dosage forms (creams, suppositories, lollipops, etc.)
- Need medications that are in short supply or are on back order
- Are unable to take a medication due to unwanted side effects, unpleasant taste, or lack of improvement
We exist to provide solutions for patients struggling with medication challenges.
“No two patients are alike; why should their medication be?” – Kevin Borg, PharmD. Owner/CEO
What does “apothecary” mean?
The word apothecary entered the English vocabulary in the 14th century, derived from the Latin word apothēca which means “storehouse”. Over time it became a title for a person who was skilled at preparing medicine. Today, “Pharmacy” or “Pharmacist” are more common terms used for apothecary, but pharmacies that specialize in compounding or hand-making medication from scratch often still use the term apothecary.
What is the meaning of the name “Potter’s House”?
Potter’s House is a biblical reference. In the book of Jeremiah, chapter 18, Jeremiah compares a potter shaping marred clay at his wheel to God shaping the lives of the Israelites through trials and circumstances. To us, this analogy is similar to our efforts in compounding: medicine being the clay and the compounder being the potter, molding and shaping a patient’s medication to improve their health and quality of life.
God is the master compounder. He can take any ingredient you give Him, anything you have been through, mix it all together and still make something great out of your life.
Do all pharmacies compound medication?
No. Unlike most retail pharmacies that dispense commercially available medication, compounding involves custom-making prescriptions. Compounding requires specialized equipment and bulk chemicals that are not available in most pharmacies. Safeguards must be in place to handle and store raw chemicals. Compounding should only be done in a laboratory under negative pressure with regular environmental monitoring. Our pharmacists have received extensive training in compounding and regularly attend continuing education seminars to stay current with the latest compounding techniques and technology. Some pharmacies incorporate a mix of commercial medications and compounding within their practice. We specialize in compounding: it’s our focus.
Do I need a prescription for compounded medication?
Yes. We compound medications specifically for you at the request of your doctor. Once we receive the prescription, we make the medication to meet your doctor’s exact specifications.
How quickly can my medication be filled?
95% of prescriptions are ready for pick up within 3-4 business days after the prescription is received.
Because compounds are custom-made and have shorter expiration dates, they cannot be dispensed to another patient. For new prescriptions, to cut down on waste, we are required to speak with you about your co-pay or cash price prior to compounding your medication.
We will notify you via text or phone call when your prescription is ready.
What can cause delays?
Our goal is to get your medication to you as quickly as possible. Some prescriptions require medications that are rare or difficult to source. In these cases, there could be a 1-2 business day delay for ordering the ingredient. If your prescription is out of refills or expired, we are required to fax your doctor for additional refills or a new prescription prior to compounding your medication. Some prescriptions are missing information, and we may need to reach out to your doctor for clarification.
As a courtesy, we will notify you if your medication will be delayed.
Do you take insurance, and will my medication be covered?
We accept most major insurance plans and are happy to check plan participation. Many insurance companies do not cover compounded medications, leaving you responsible for the cost.
Can you ship my medication?
We are happy to ship your medication via Federal Express at your request for an additional $10 fee.
Can my medication be shipped out of state?
We cannot ship your medication outside of the state of Arizona. Regulations require a pharmacy to be licensed in every state to which they ship. We have chosen to focus on patients within the state of Arizona.
Can a family member or friend pick up my medication for me?
Yes. They must provide us with your full name, date of birth, and address.
What are your hours of operation?
Our team of friendly pharmacy professionals are available in-store or by phone Monday through Friday from 8am to 6pm. 623.362.9322. We are closed on weekends to focus on faith and family.
Where are you located?
We are conveniently located on the southeast corner of 77th Ave and Deer Valley Road in Peoria.
Do you offer a Military Discount?
We appreciate the sacrifice of our military. We honor their service by offering a 10% discount to all active and retired military personnel with a government issued ID.
The discount applies to the military member only. The discount only applies to cash prescriptions and over-the-counter merchandise. We cannot waive your copay or cost sharing portion with insurance claims. Please do not hesitate to contact us for details.
What if my doctor is unfamiliar or uncomfortable with prescribing compounds?
We are happy to work with your doctor. We can provide a prescription form with suggested formulations or make a formulation recommendation to your doctor for your specific needs.
We can also provide you with a list of valley physicians that are experienced with compounding.
What should I look for when choosing a compounding pharmacy?
Not all compounding pharmacies are created equal. At a minimum, we suggest you partner with a local pharmacy that specializes in compounding. Choosing a compounding pharmacy that is PCAB Accredited and USP 795, 797 and 800 compliant will help ensure your medication meets the highest standards of quality and safety.