By PCCA

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Laurie Hidalgo, CPhT, of Prosperity Pharmacy Manassas in Manassas, Virginia, owned by Frank Odeh, RPh; Lisa Odeh, RPh; and Vinod Patel, PharmD. Prosperity Pharmacy has been a PCCA member since 2011.

Did you always want to work in the field of pharmacy?

I have always wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, so I first went to school and became a certified medical assistant. Later on, after a few years of working in a doctor's office, I became more interested in the science side of pharmaceuticals and went back to school to pursue a degree in pharmacy as a technician.

When did you learn about compounding? Why did you start compounding?

I had no idea about compounding medication until I started working at Prosperity Pharmacy. I was working in the retail aspect of the pharmacy for a few months until one day, the pharmacy needed another compounding technician. Then I took the opportunity for new challenges and accepted a position that allowed me to learn more about the job and myself. Afterward, I attended PCCA’s C3 training course (now known as CORE Compounding Training) that taught me to become a better compounder.

Attending this course helped me understand so much more about compounding. It covered everything –how to make suspensions, suppositories, lollipops, animal treats, rectal rockets and especially capsules, something that we do daily at the pharmacy. Since I was so new to compounding, this course helped me understand how to do capsule calculations and packing stats. I totally recommend PCCA’s CORE training course for any new compounders.

What do you find most fulfilling about compounding?

Our ability to customize medications to the patients’ specific needs. One thing that I love most is that every day is different with different scenarios, and we are capable of assessing each situation to provide the best medication for our patients.

What are some of your favorite PCCA formulas? What do you like about them?

I like PCCA’s Methimazole Formula #13215 because the inclusion of WO6 Anhydrous Topical Gel^® with the hydroquinone allows the medication to have a six-month beyond-use date without refrigeration. The feedback we have received from patients and prescribers has been favorable, and that is what makes me enjoy working with this formula.

What is a memorable story from your time in compounding?

We had a feline patient who refused multiple compounded suspension formulations. However, we were able to work with the veterinarian to determine the proper dosage using a topical Lipoderm^® option instead. After a few days, the owner called us and was very satisfied with the result. The cat was able to take the medication and slowly got better.

What advice would you give to a new compounder?

Be patient and ask questions. No matter how big or small the question is, it can make a difference in your learning process. There will be a lot of information at the beginning to absorb, so take notes and do your research. Every day is a learning experience.