Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about compounded medications and EpitomeRx.
Still have questions?
Our pharmacist is available by phone during business hours.
What is a compounding pharmacy?
A compounding pharmacy prepares customized medications tailored to an individual patient's needs. Our pharmacist prepares the exact strength, dosage form and combination your healthcare provider orders.
Why would I need a compounded medication?
Your provider may prescribe a compounded medication if you need a dose that isn't made commercially, have an allergy or sensitivity to a dye or filler, need a different form such as a cream, liquid, troche or capsule, need several medications combined, or can't find a medication because it has been discontinued or is in short supply. Pediatric and veterinary doses often need adjusting too.
What types of medications do you compound?
We specialize in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, dermatology compounds, low dose naltrexone, topical pain preparations and dental anesthetics, plus pediatric and veterinary preparations. If you don't see what you need, call us. Many other formulations can be prepared.
Do you compound sterile products?
Not yet. We currently prepare nonsterile compounds only, such as creams, gels, capsules, troches and oral liquids. Our sterile compounding room is built, and we are working on the California license required to use it. Until then, call us and we can point you to a pharmacy that offers sterile compounding.
Do you fill regular (commercially manufactured) prescriptions?
Our pharmacy focuses on compounded medications, so we recommend keeping commercially manufactured prescriptions at your regular pharmacy.
What is a 503A pharmacy?
A 503A pharmacy compounds medications for individual patients based on a valid prescription, under the oversight of its state board of pharmacy. EpitomeRx is a licensed 503A compounding pharmacy in California. Compounded medications are not FDA approved; they are prepared to your provider's exact order for you. Learn about our standards.
Are compounded medications FDA approved?
No. Compounded prescriptions are not individually FDA approved the way commercially manufactured drugs are. They are prepared by licensed pharmacists from pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, following state and federal regulations and applicable USP standards, for a specific patient with a valid prescription.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes. Every compounded medication requires a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Our Nº 29 skincare and Fullscript supplements do not require a prescription.
How much will my prescription cost? Do you take insurance?
Price depends on the formula, strength and quantity, so we quote every prescription when we call to confirm your order, before anything is prepared. EpitomeRx is a cash-pay pharmacy, meaning we do not bill insurance. Payment is by credit or debit card over the phone, collected before we compound your prescription. We can give you a universal claim form so you can submit to your insurance plan for possible reimbursement. Many patients also use HSA or FSA funds; check with your plan administrator.
How long does it take to prepare my prescription?
It depends on the compound. If we have everything in stock, most prescriptions are ready to ship within 24 to 48 hours. If it's a new formula or needs an ingredient we have to order, allow 2 to 3 business days for the ingredients to arrive, plus time to compound. We'll give you a timeline when we call to confirm your order.
Do you ship medications?
Yes. Most prescriptions ship directly to patients' homes anywhere in California, with packaging suited to temperature-sensitive medications. Local pickup in Arcadia is available by calling ahead.
Can I speak with the pharmacist?
Yes. Our pharmacist is available to answer questions about your medication, how to use it and anything else you'd like to discuss. Call us at 626.631.6150.