FAQ

Advanced Scripts Pharmacy is a specialized compounding pharmacy located in Florida, dedicated to providing personalized pharmaceutical solutions. We create custom medications tailored to individual patient needs when commercial medications are not suitable or available. Our board-certified pharmacist, Dr. Dina Ibrahim, brings extensive experience in hospital and critical care settings to ensure the highest quality compounded medications.

Unlike traditional retail pharmacies that dispense commercially manufactured medications, we specialize in compounding – the art and science of creating personalized medications. We can adjust dosages, remove allergens, change delivery methods, combine medications, and create formulations that are not commercially available. Our focus is on providing individualized pharmaceutical care that meets each patient’s unique needs.

We are located in Florida and serve patients throughout the state. We also work with healthcare providers and patients in other states where legally permitted. Please contact us for specific information about serving your location.

We do not accept insurance directly but provide a universal claim form for patients to submit to their insurance provider for possible reimbursement.

Coverage for compounded medications varies depending on the insurance plan and the specific formulation. Many plans require prior authorization before approving compounded prescriptions. Our team assists with coverage verification and supports patients through the prior authorization process when needed.

We also accept Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for qualified medical expenses, offering flexible payment options for your convenience

To begin, you’ll need a prescription from your healthcare provider specifying the compounded medication needed. Once you have a prescription, contact us to discuss your specific needs, verify insurance coverage if applicable, and arrange for preparation and delivery of your medication.

Pharmaceutical compounding is the practice of creating personalized medications by combining, mixing, or altering ingredients to meet individual patient needs. This allows pharmacists to customize medications in ways that commercial manufacturers cannot, such as adjusting dosages, removing allergens, changing flavors, or creating unique delivery methods.

You might benefit from compounded medications if you:

• Are allergic to ingredients in commercial medications.
• Need a different dosage strength than what’s commercially available.
• Require a different delivery method (cream instead of pill, for example).
• Need multiple medications combined into one formulation.
• Are a child who needs liquid formulations or special flavoring.
• Have difficulty swallowing pills and need alternative forms.
• Need a medication that has been discontinued by manufacturers.
• Require hormone replacement therapy with specific ratios.

Yes, when prepared by qualified compounding pharmacists following proper procedures. Advanced Scripts Pharmacy follows strict quality control measures, uses pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, and adheres to United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards. Our pharmacist has extensive training and experience in compounding techniques and safety protocols.

The stability and expiration of compounded medications depend on the specific ingredients and formulation. We conduct stability testing and provide appropriate beyond-use dates for each preparation. Generally, compounded medications have shorter shelf lives than commercial products, typically ranging from 30 days to 6 months, depending on the formulation.

Individual compounded medications are not FDA approved in the same way as commercial drugs. However, compounding pharmacies must follow FDA regulations and guidelines. The ingredients we use are typically FDA-approved, and our compounding practices follow established safety and quality standards.

We specialize in compounding for various women’s health conditions including:

• Menopause and perimenopause symptoms.
• Hormone imbalances.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
• Endometriosis.
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).
• Postpartum depression.
• Vaginal atrophy and dryness.
• Fertility support.
• Pregnancy-related nausea.
• Breastfeeding support.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy uses hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced by the human body. These hormones are derived from plant sources and customized to match each patient’s specific hormonal needs. BHRT can help address symptoms of menopause, perimenopause, and other hormonal imbalances.

Traditional hormone therapy often uses synthetic hormones or hormones derived from animal sources that are not identical to human hormones. BHRT uses hormones with the exact same molecular structure as those produced by your body. Additionally, BHRT can be customized to your specific hormone levels and needs, while traditional therapy typically uses standardized doses.

We can prepare hormones in various forms including:

• Topical creams and gels.
• Sublingual tablets and troches.
• Oral capsules.
• Vaginal suppositories.
• Nasal sprays.
• Transdermal preparations.

The delivery method is chosen based on your specific needs and preferences.

Hormone testing is typically recommended if you’re experiencing symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, irregular periods, low energy, sleep disturbances, or decreased libido. Your healthcare provider can order appropriate hormone tests to determine if BHRT might be beneficial for you.

Yes, we specialize in pediatric compounding to create child-friendly medications. Children often have difficulty taking standard medications due to taste, size, or dosing issues. We can create liquid formulations, add pleasant flavors, adjust dosages for smaller body weights, and remove problematic ingredients.

We offer a wide variety of child-friendly flavors including:

• Fruit flavors: strawberry, cherry, grape, orange, apple, watermelon
• Sweet flavors: bubblegum, cotton candy, vanilla, chocolate
• Other options: mint, banana, and custom flavor combinations
  We work with parents and children to find flavors that make medication time easier and more pleasant.

Absolutely. Many children are sensitive to artificial dyes, preservatives, and other additives commonly found in commercial medications. We can create formulations without these problematic ingredients while maintaining the medication’s effectiveness.

Yes, we specialize in pediatric compounding to create child-friendly medications. Children often have difficulty taking standard medications due to taste, size, or dosing issues. We can create liquid formulations, add pleasant flavors, adjust dosages for smaller body weights, and remove problematic ingredients.

Pediatric dosing requires careful calculation based on the child’s weight, age, and specific condition. Our pharmacist works closely with pediatricians to ensure accurate dosing. We can create precise concentrations that allow for easy measurement and administration.

We understand this common challenge and offer several solutions:

• Multiple flavoring options to find one your child likes.
• Different delivery methods (liquids, gummies, topical creams).
• Combination formulations to reduce the number of doses.
• Consultation on administration techniques.
• Working with you to find the most acceptable form for your child.

We compound medications for various dermatological conditions including:

• Acne and acne scarring.
• Eczema and atopic dermatitis.
• Psoriasis.
• Rosacea.
• Melasma and hyperpigmentation.
• Fungal infections.
• Wound healing.
• Anti-aging treatments.
• Alopecia (hair loss).
• Vitiligo.

Yes, combination acne treatments are one of our specialties. We can combine ingredients like tretinoin, clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide, and other acne-fighting ingredients into a single formulation. This approach can be more effective than using multiple separate products and improves patient compliance.

We compound various anti-aging treatments including combinations of retinoids, antioxidants, peptides, and other active ingredients. These formulations can be customized for your specific skin type and concerns, whether you’re dealing with fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, or uneven skin tone.

For sensitive skin, we can create gentle formulations without common irritants like fragrances, dyes, and harsh preservatives. We can also adjust concentrations of active ingredients and select appropriate bases that are less likely to cause irritation while still providing therapeutic benefits.

Compounded topical medications can contain higher concentrations of active ingredients than over-the-counter products, can combine multiple active ingredients that aren’t available together commercially, and can be formulated without ingredients that cause sensitivity. They’re also customized for your specific skin condition and needs.

We compound medications for various pain conditions including:

• Chronic back and neck pain.
• Arthritis and joint pain.
• Neuropathic pain (nerve pain).
• Fibromyalgia.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).
• Sports injuries.
• Post-surgical pain.
• Migraine and headache pain.
• Cancer-related pain.

Topical pain medications offer several advantages:

• Direct application to the pain site for targeted relief.
• Reduced systemic side effects compared to oral medications.
• Lower risk of drug interactions.
• Can be used in combination with other treatments.
• Avoid gastrointestinal irritation common with oral pain medications.
• Reduced risk of dependency compared to oral opioids.

Yes, we specialize in creating effective pain management formulations that don’t contain opioids. These may include combinations of anti-inflammatory medications, local anesthetics, muscle relaxants, and other pain-relieving ingredients that can provide significant relief without the risks associated with opioid medications.

Low Dose Naltrexone is a compounded medication that can help with chronic pain conditions, autoimmune disorders, and inflammation. At low doses (typically 1.5-4.5mg), naltrexone can help modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, potentially providing relief for conditions like fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Application instructions vary by formulation, but generally involve applying a thin layer to clean, intact skin over the painful area. We provide detailed instructions with each medication, including how much to apply, how often, and any special precautions. It’s important to wash hands after application unless treating the hands.

Yes, we offer comprehensive veterinary compounding services for pets of all sizes, from small animals like cats and dogs to exotic pets and large animals. We work with veterinarians to create customized medications that meet the unique needs of animal patients.

Animals often need different dosages, flavors, or delivery methods than what’s available in commercial veterinary medications. Compounding allows us to:

• Create appropriate dosages for different animal sizes.
• Add flavors that animals find appealing.
• Remove ingredients that may be harmful to specific species.
• Create formulations for animals that are difficult to medicate.
• Provide medications that have been discontinued.

We offer species-appropriate flavors including:

• For dogs: chicken, beef, bacon, peanut butter, cheese, fish.
• For cats: tuna, salmon, chicken, liver, malt.
• For exotic pets: fruit flavors, vegetable flavors appropriate for the species.
• Custom flavoring based on your pet’s preferences.

Yes, transdermal gels can be very effective for pets that are difficult to medicate orally. These medications are absorbed through the skin, typically applied to the inner ear flap where there’s less fur. This method is particularly useful for cats and other animals that resist taking oral medications.

Yes, all veterinary compounded medications require a valid prescription from a licensed veterinarian. The veterinarian must have an established relationship with you and your pet (VCPR – Valid Client-Patient Relationship) to prescribe compounded medications.

We compound medications for various dental and oral health conditions including:

• Periodontal disease.
• Oral infections.
• Dry mouth (xerostomia).
• Oral pain and inflammation.
• Oral thrush and fungal infections.
• Mouth ulcers and sores.
• Post-surgical care.
• TMJ disorders.

Yes, we can compound custom mouth rinses with specific medications for treating oral infections, reducing inflammation, managing pain, or addressing other oral health issues. These can be formulated without alcohol or other ingredients that may cause irritation.

We can compound medications to help with dental anxiety, including sublingual tablets or oral solutions that can be taken before dental procedures. These formulations can be customized for the appropriate level of sedation needed for different procedures

We can compound artificial saliva substitutes and medications to help stimulate natural saliva production. These formulations can provide relief for patients experiencing dry mouth due to medications, medical treatments, or medical conditions.

We compound various hormones including:

• Estrogen (estradiol, estriol, estrone).
• Progesterone.
• Testosterone.
• DHEA.
• Pregnenolone.
• Thyroid hormones (T3, T4, combination).
• Cortisol.
• Growth hormone. releasing factors.

Compounded thyroid medications can be customized to include specific ratios of T3 and T4 hormones, can be made without fillers or dyes that may cause sensitivities, and can be prepared in different strengths than what’s commercially available. This allows for more precise dosing and better symptom management for some patients.

We can compound medications to support adrenal function, including low-dose cortisol preparations and other hormones that may help with adrenal insufficiency. These treatments should always be supervised by a qualified healthcare provider who can monitor hormone levels and adjust treatment as needed.

Comprehensive hormone testing is typically recommended before starting any hormone therapy. This may include blood, saliva, or urine tests to measure current hormone levels. Your healthcare provider will determine which tests are appropriate for your specific situation.

We follow strict quality standards including:

• United States Pharmacopeia (USP) guidelines.
• Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).
• Regular quality control testing.
• Pharmaceutical-grade ingredients only.
• Proper storage and handling procedures.
• Detailed documentation and record keeping.

We source all ingredients from FDA-registered suppliers and require certificates of analysis for each ingredient. We conduct additional testing when necessary to verify identity, purity, and potency. All ingredients meet pharmaceutical-grade standards.

If you experience any allergic reaction, discontinue use immediately and contact your healthcare provider. We maintain detailed records of all ingredients used in each formulation to help identify potential allergens. We can reformulate medications to remove problematic ingredients if needed.

We follow strict contamination prevention protocols including:

• Clean room environments for sterile compounding.
• Proper hand hygiene and protective equipment.
• Regular environmental monitoring.
• Segregated areas for different types of compounding.
• Proper cleaning and sanitization procedures.

To place an order, you’ll need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. You can contact us by phone, email, or through our website. We’ll review the prescription, discuss any questions or options, verify insurance coverage if applicable, and provide information about timing and cost.

Preparation time varies depending on the complexity of the formulation and current workload. Most non-sterile preparations can be completed within 24-48 hours. Sterile preparations may take longer. We’ll provide an estimated completion time when you place your order and contact you when your medication is ready.

Yes, we offer various delivery options including:

• Local delivery in our service area.
• Overnight shipping nationwide.
• Standard shipping for non-urgent medications.
• Special handling for temperature-sensitive medications.

We’ll work with you to determine the best delivery method for your needs.

We can ship to states where we are licensed to practice pharmacy. Pharmacy licensing requirements vary by state, so please contact us to confirm whether we can serve your location.

For refills, contact us with your prescription information. If you have remaining refills on your prescription, we can prepare your medication. If your prescription has expired or you have no refills remaining, you’ll need to contact your healthcare provider for a new prescription.

We accept various payment methods including:

• Cash and checks.
• Credit and debit cards.
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA).
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Some insurance plans (with prior authorization).
• Payment plans for expensive treatments (case by case basis).

Costs vary significantly depending on the ingredients, complexity of preparation, and quantity needed. We provide cost estimates before preparing your medication. Many patients find that the benefits of customized therapy justify the cost, especially when commercial alternatives are not effective.

Insurance coverage varies by plan and specific medication. Many insurance companies require prior authorization for compounded medications. We can help verify your coverage and assist with prior authorization requests. Even if not covered by insurance, compounded medications may be eligible for HSA or FSA reimbursement.

Yes, we can assist with prior authorization requests by providing necessary documentation about the medical necessity of the compounded medication. This may include information about why commercial alternatives are not suitable and clinical justification for the specific formulation.

We work with various healthcare providers including:

• Primary care physicians.
• Specialists (endocrinologists, dermatologists, pain management, etc.).
• Nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
• Naturopathic doctors.
• Veterinarians.
• Dentists and oral surgeons.

Absolutely. We encourage healthcare providers to contact us to discuss formulation options, dosing strategies, and any questions about compounded medications. Our pharmacist is available for professional consultations to ensure optimal patient care.

Yes, we provide educational materials about compounding capabilities, formulation options, and clinical applications. We also offer consultations to help healthcare providers understand how compounding can benefit their patients.

Our pharmacist can suggest alternative formulations or delivery methods that might be more suitable for specific patients or conditions. We work collaboratively with healthcare providers to develop optimal treatment solutions.

You can reach us through:

• Phone: [Phone number to be added]
• Email: [Email address to be added]
• Website: [Website contact form]
• In person at our Florida location

[Hours to be specified based on actual operating hours]

For urgent medication needs, please contact us to discuss options. We may be able to accommodate emergency preparations depending on the situation and medication needed.

You can stay informed by:

• Subscribing to our newsletter.
• Following us on social media.
• Checking our website regularly.
• Asking to be notified about services relevant to your conditions.