Pain is the most common symptom for which individuals seek medical help. Acute pain easily can evolve into chronic pain, which can become difficult to treat. Many commonly prescribed, commercially available pain relief medications help the symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, migraine headaches, and other nerve and muscle pain, but they can also result in unwanted side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness or stomach irritation.

Some patients have difficulty taking the medication in its commercially available dosage or dosage form. Others desire a topical adjunct to lower their oral dosage. Physicians and patients may find an alternative solution through pharmacy compounding.

Options include:

• A topical gel, cream or spray form that can be applied directly to the site of the pain and absorbed through the skin

• A custom-flavored troche that dissolves under the tongue, a nasal spray, or a suppository bypassing the stomach

• Combining multiple medications into a single dose capsule or topical preparation, providing greater convenience for the patient

• Customize the dosage to the exact amount the patient requires, and find a dosage form that best suits the patient’s needs

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