THE PCCA BLOG

Profile in Personalized Medicine - Stephanie Yang

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 11:00:00 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Stephanie Yang, owner and co-founder of Accent Wellness Compounding Pharmacy in Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. She has been a proud PCCA member since 2011. Our new 2023 profiles ask pharmacy compounders how they incorporate PCCA’s Principles into their pharmacies.

What’s your favorite PCCA Principle?

To be honest, this is a little tough as all the Principles seem to resonate with who I am as a person and the values that I have instilled in the team. I am on the fence between "Do the Right Thing, Always" and "Be a Lifelong Learner.”

I am a firm believer of always doing what's right, not just for ourselves but for the people around us and the community we serve. In addition, as part of our commitment to excellence, the only way we can grow and move forward is to do it right from the start, improve and innovate, and always keep an open mind to learn. After all, life is a continuous learning experience.

How do you live these 3 PCCA Principles in your compounding practice?

Treat Everyone with Dignity and Respect — Everyone, from customers to staff, are treated the same: with utmost respect and courtesy, regardless of level, background, race or gender. Our customer service team is taught to “treat people the same way as you would like to be treated in their position.” This is also reflected in our culture, where we do not tolerate discrimination.

Listen Actively — Our approach involves not just listening, but also observing what verbal and non-verbal messages are being sent. This allows us to provide the best and most appropriate response, resulting in a mutual understanding between both parties.

Be Tenacious About Response Time — In our pharmacy, turnaround time is taken seriously. We measure as well as track it for further improvement. Our target is for patients to receive their compounded products in 3 working days from when the prescription is received. Apart from this, our response time to patient queries is within 1 day. These timelines are strictly upheld within our practice to ensure customer satisfaction. 

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?

As a non-pharmacist, I was introduced to compounding when I was working with autistic children in Australia. Fast forward a couple of years; I moved back to Malaysia due to family commitments and was re-introduced to the idea of compounding by a family friend based in the U.S. My friend was from the same circle of friends who educated us about the gold standard for quality raw materials that PCCA supplies. What we learned from Dr. Neal Rouzier, who stressed heavily preparing only quality compounds with quality ingredients for patients, has proveneffective. We have since upheld our passion for excellence and promise to only deliver the best possible compounded preparations for the best patient results.

When was the last time a patient thanked you and why?

In my line of work, I find it personally fulfilling when I receive text messages from patients or doctors thanking me for the help or a suggested idea, which in turn improved the quality of a patient’s life. Just a few days ago, I received a message from a postmenopausal patient who had suffered from chronic insomnia for the past 15 years. The patient also had joint problems, which made climbing stairs difficult. Through the non-profit that I co-founded for women with PCOS, she came to know about the benefits of compounded hormones and had her daughter contact us for more information. From this very emotional conversation with both mother and daughter, I was able to educate them about what is happening with the mother’shealth and was able to point them in the right direction for a clearer diagnosis. She thanked me for giving her life back.

As a “Lifelong Learner” what’s your favorite PCCA education program or event and why?

I would have to say hands down that it’s International Seminar because, while I admit it can be a little overwhelming, I get so excited sitting in aroom filled with so many brilliant individuals who are equally passionate about compounding. PCCA compoundersare many steps ahead of current mindsets, with extraordinary brilliance and know-how. I appreciate the opportunity to learn about new compounding trends and, more importantly, how we can ensure continuity in this industry. I also appreciate how International Seminar helps to foster the bond we as compounders have, which enables us to grow and learn together.

How do you “Keep Things Fun” at your pharmacy?

At Accent Wellness, we are constantly looking for ways to keep things exciting and fresh for our customers and our team. For our customers, we involve them— we host live talks, and create games and quizzes for them to win prizes. For our team, we offer many activities, including trips (both locally and overseas) and meals outside of work. We do one activity at least once a month to strengthen our company culture, remind us of our core values and, most importantly, strengthen our team bond and spirit.  

As you strive to “Deliver Results,” what’s been your most satisfying patient experience and how did you solve it?

Our most satisfying patient experience would be a patient (one of many) who had a remarkable positive change in her life after starting compoundedtherapy. After reaching menopause, she lost her energy, had migraines, sleep problems and a poor immune system. After beginning theBHRT course prescribed to her, her energy levels were so good that she returned to the gym! She was able to sleep for a full 7 hours, her migraines disappeared and her health improved. Her amazing results and happiness at living her life to the fullest fueled our drive to do the same for other patients. We are delighted to attest to continuing that positive experience for other patients, within a supportive environment. We also have helped many pediatric patients whose parents come to us with a medication problem. We are able to help compound dosage forms that their children will take. We even compound pain medications for veterinary patients with cancer.

What’s a “WOW” moment you’ve had as a member of PCCA?

In terms of WOW-ness from the PCCA team, that would be the amount of support they provide — going the extra mile to support our business by coming all the way to Malaysia to coach our team and help us improve our compounding, even co-hosting talks to patients.

Whenever possible, we try to do things differently. We recently celebrated 8 years of excellence and sent a little cake to our loyal customers who have been with us throughout this journey as a token of appreciation for their unwavering support.

What’s your favorite PCCA base and why?

If I was asked this question in the early days, I would have said Lipoderm® because it seems to be the undefeated champion in delivering superb results. Currently, I might say XemaTop™, though it's not something we use as much as we do Lipoderm or VersaBase®. The uniqueness of XemaTop™ used on its own or combined with say, naltrexone, makes it a one-of-a-kind product that can really help improve serious skin conditions for many people. It isan excellent option for patients of any age, including babies. That is why, together with the PCCA seal of excellence, we are confident to market our compounding services to our prescribers and patients.

Profiles in Personalized Medicine - Brad White and Paul White

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 14:29:33 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Brad White, RPh, and Paul White, RPh, the owners of Medicine Center Pharmacy in New Philadelphia, Ohio. He has been a proud PCCA member since 2005. Our new 2023 profiles ask pharmacy compounders how they incorporate PCCA’s Principles into their own pharmacies.

What’s your favorite PCCA Principle? Why?

Embrace Change and Growth – Part of being an independent pharmacist in a community pharmacy is leveraging your knowledge, creativity, the talent around you and available technology to overcome the obstacles in your way. What could be more challenging than being a problem solver in health care? Pharmacy can be the most frustrating or the most rewarding profession. How you respond to the challenges and obstacles determines how you impact your community. The ability to learn, change, adapt and grow in your role and practice determines your outcome. Our opportunities are only limited by our vision.

What three PCCA Principles do you emphasize in your practice of compounding or at your pharmacy?

Speak Straight – One of the most challenging things as a second-generation pharmacist in a 49-year-old family company is pitching and fighting for changes and enhancements to legacy beliefs and ideas. It requires communication, persistence and explaining the WHY to make progress against the headwinds of reluctance to change. It conditions you to fight for what you believe in, and to be persistent.

Bring Your Best Self Every Day – In pharmacy, it always seems someone, or something, is against us. On any given day it could be an ingredient shortage, insurance company denial, a federal agency changing the playing field or changes to industry best practices. I have been working for the last few years on working to channel my best self. Early in my career, there was no nobility in being vulnerable. It was all about “being tough” or saying “I can handle it.” Now I focus daily on self-care, meditation and Stoic teachings to strive to be the leader that the company needs me to be. Many days I succeed, and some days I stumble, but I am working diligently to support the team and our pharmacy.

Collaborate – I have been so fortunate in my 26 years as a pharmacist to have worked with some amazingly talented team members. We could not achieve what we have nor help as many patients as we have without the care and dedication of amazing people. There is no way I could ever do it all alone. From my parents as mentors in the pharmacy to the amazing pharmacists and pharmacy technicians who work to deliver our services to make our communities a better, healthier place. I am so proud of those that have been on this journey with me and shared the experience. One of my favorite things is to give a problem to the team to solve. It makes me so happy when they find a solution or system that works better than the one that I had in mind.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?

I knew of PCCA as the authority in compounding out of college. We were struggling for an identity to set ourselves apart from the big pharmacy chains. In 2004, on the recommendation of a colleague, I dove in and took the plunge. From the beginning, PCCA was clearly a different type of organization. I know of no other community of excellence that is on par with PCCA. The education, leadership, resources and support were then, and continue to be, exceptional. PCCA has helped guide us to be a destination for providers for solving problems for tough-to-treat patients.

As a “Lifelong Learner,” what is your favorite PCCA education program or event and why?

This is an extremely hard question. PCCA education events are so amazing and packed full of tools to help you support your patients. I value and have so much respect for those I have met and have supported us in our journey. That said, I enjoy the Concierge Compounding events. There is always cutting-edge info from attendees that I have so much respect for. What we can accomplish together is inspiring.

As you strive to “Deliver Results,” what has been your most satisfying patient experience or toughest patient problem?

I strive to be one to put systems in place to overcome what I call “customer service failures.” It could be an out-of-stock item or simply a late delivery. This is part of my continuous quality improvement process to find the way and implement a system or solution to prevent customer service failure from happing again. It could be improving workflow, education, execution, etc. We are always looking to make our system better to minimize the chance of disappointing a patient or caregiver.

My most satisfying patient experience was at a low-dose naltrexone (LDN) seminar I was presenting at and, unknown to me, one of our patients stood up and told her story about how our LDN compound had helped her get her life back. I still get goosebumps replaying it in my mind. You may never know to what extent you touch someone’s life, and when you learn of someone who you have had a huge impact on it is humbling.

As a member of PCCA, what is the biggest “aha” that has come from “Being Curious”?

I have been so lucky to be a part of dozens of PCCA educational events. I love having the PCCA Clinical Services team and my Concierge Compounding colleagues as part of my toolkit to be able to step back, look at a problem and think of diverse ways to approach the problem with a variety of solutions. You say, “Be Curious” and I think of one of my favorite episodes of Ted Lasso when he is playing darts with Rupert. What better habit can we cultivate than asking questions to help us solve patient problems? I can think of none better. Biggest “aha” moment must be “ask questions and listen.” You can learn a lot by listening more than talking.

What is a “WOW” moment you’ve had as a member of PCCA?

I have so much respect for the members who have blazed the way, the consultants that support us with our sometimes simple to often challenging patient problems. The members, staff and guest speakers who appear on stage. I am so flattered and humbled to be part of this recognition experience. My team works hard to take care of patients and solve their problems every day. This honor really belongs to them. It is my hope that I can assist in some small way to bring out the best in them.

What is your favorite PCCA base and why?

SuspendIt® is my favorite base because I feel like it provides so many solutions for pediatric patients.

Profile in Personalized Medicine - Anne Henriksen

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 13:11:11 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Anne Henriksen, PharmD, of Malley's Compounding Pharmacy in Richland, Washington – a PCCA member since 2006.

When was the last time a patient thanked you?

We received a thank you note just the other day from the owner of a St. Bernard patient who was suffering from a vicious kennel cough. We worked with the veterinarian to adjust the dose to the ideal dosage for this specific dog for clinical efficacy while reducing the side effects. The owner was thrilled!

I also had a customer come in yesterday who was concerned with her memory and needed help with her supplements. I recommended several different therapies, as well as explained the disease course and set realistic expectations. She thanked me multiple times. She brought her husband back with her later in the day to show me the supplements they had at home. We reviewed the supplements and developed a plan for her and her husband moving forward. She left by stating, “You are just what I needed.”

How did you get into compounding?

We had just bought the pharmacy in 2006. I did not like compounding when I was in school. I had awful memories of hand punching capsules and making coal tar ointment. My husband, who is not a pharmacist, is the one who discovered PCCA and mentioned that we should add compounding services to the pharmacy. I was not thrilled with the idea at first. I was still traumatized from the compounding lab in school and had not yet learned how compounding could help solve clinical challenges. I took almost a full year to learn everything I could before making my first compound, then fell in love with not only compounding, but also PCCA. The rest is history.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

Being such a unique pharmacist and owning a unique pharmacy that serves our local community. I love serving my community in a way that no one else is able to: nutritionally, functionally and personally with my rock-star staff.

What is something you would like new compounders to know?

Compounding pharmacy is a lifelong learning process. There is a lot to learn in the beginning, and there is still a lot to learn as you go! Learn from the best, keep learning and reach out to colleagues, mentors and organizations to continually grow. Our patients deserve it!

What is one of your most satisfying patient experiences?

Caring for our critically ill pediatric patients. It can be both heartbreaking and heartwarming to get to know them and their families. We solve patient problems by working with flavors, insurance coverage issues, parents, caregivers, you name it. As one dad says, “We are just as much of a part of the care team as any other.”

What was your biggest "WOW" moment as a PCCA member?

The connections I am able to make with other members and PCCA team members. PCCA isn't just a supplier. It's all about connections.

Do you have a favorite PCCA base?

I have two favorites! LoxOral® = increased productivity! We use LoxOral in almost all of our capsules. We love it because it allows us to make capsules faster and easier. I also love all of the anhydrous bases.. Our patients and providers get great results!

And your favorite PCCA Education Program?

PCCA’s Concierge Program. I have met so many friends and mentors in my Concierge group. Our industry is challenging; connection and support are essential.

What does “Compounding: It’s Personal” means to you?

Compounded medications are not one size fits all, unlike commercially available medications. My pharmacy’s database of formulations is in the thousands. Each of those represents a patient, and a patient need is a problem solved.

Profile in Personalized Medicine - Omar Eliwa

Wed, 11 May 2022 12:13:44 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Omar Eliwa, RPh, of Welltopia Pharmacy in Thiensville, Wisconsin. They have been PCCA Members since 2017

When was the last time a patient thanked you?

Today! We marketed a special service within minutes from the time it was approved – COVID-19 vaccinations for children ages 5-11. The customer was happy we’re always providing the services needed by the community before anyone else.

How did you get into pharmacy compounding?

My previous partner was a PCCA member, and I took the C3 training course (now CORE Compounding Training) that took my “Alice” imagination to the wonderland of compounding!

What’s the favorite thing about your job?

Feeling like a magician holding a wand I can utilize to create a different rabbit when I receive a new formula request from a prescriber. It’s fun, challenging and super rewarding.

What advice would you give to new compounders?

Always be a student and humble yourself every time someone tells you thank you. Keep your lab clean and clutter-free!

What is your most satisfying patient experience?

When an 80-year-old patient with chronic back pain brought my team chocolates and danced in my pharmacy because the LDN formula we compounded for him worked in just two weeks!

What has been your biggest “WOW” moment as a PCCA Member?

The level of support I received from CPMS, in particular Director of Business Coaching Services Bryan Prescott, PharmD, MBA, when I was opening Welltopia. His help was true, authentic and much needed when mentorship turns your dreams to achievable goals.

What is your favorite PCCA Base?

MucoLox™, because it solves a problem very few competitors can tackle: adherence to the mucous membrane lining the throat for 3-4 hours. It’s wonderful to see a simple MucoLox lidocaine preparation improve the life of a cancer patient. By numbing the throat pain caused by chemotherapy, the patient can eat again.

What is your favorite PCCA Educational experience?

PCCA International Seminar because I get to see fellow member Jim Hernci, RPh, every time I go. He is my idol and an awesome man to look up to!

What “Compounding: It’s Personal” means to me:

Challenging myself to help people in very interesting ways.

Profiles in Personalized Medicine - Michelle Gray

Wed, 05 May 2021 17:16:34 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Michelle Gray, RPh, C4 HRT Specialist, Therapeutic Nutrition Lifestyle Coach and owner of Gray’s Compounding Pharmacy in Kimberly, British Columbia. She has been a proud PCCA member since 2013.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?

I was hired by a small independent pharmacy in 2002 to start the compounding practice for the owner. The owner and I went to Houston for C3 training. This along with the daily PCCA clinical support gave me the confidence to go out into the medical community to educate physicians about what compounding is and how I could help them with their challenges. They would then write prescriptions when appropriate, and I would go back, make the preparations and counsel the patients.

What was one of your toughest patient problems? How did you solve it?

I attended the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) symposium in Houston in February 2003. This launched my HRT practice. I would say that balancing hormones and understanding the complex interplay and symphony of hormones has perhaps presented some of the toughest patient problems.

One patient in particular had shown great perseverance. We worked with their health care practitioner and started with some topical progesterone, then adding bi-est (estriol and estradiol). We adjusted strengths, but upon repeat lab tests, found that we hadn't moved the levels significantly — she wasn't absorbing the hormones. In consultation with the patient’s practitioner, we decided to change the formulation to troches, and the patient immediately had a marked improvement of symptoms.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience? What was their health challenge? How did you assist them?

A retired nurse approached me about helping her husband heal a long-standing ulcer on his foot. He’d had an electrical accident 30 years prior and had lost some toes, but this part of his foot kept breaking down. The skin was fragile, and they had tried everything the health care practitioners could come up with, including casting the foot for months. It looked like amputation was the next logical step. After consulting with PCCA, I made a recommendation to the patient’s practitioner for a combination of active ingredients in a powder to be applied to the wound and held in place with a bandage. They prescribed this along with a medicated topical cream in Lipoderm® for the skin that hadn't broken down around the wound. They were very excited to see the wound finally show signs of healing and eventually closure.

What was the moment you realized that joining PCCA was going to make a difference for your pharmacy?

The independent pharmacy I worked for was sold to the Shoppers Drug Mart chain in 2006. Along with the sale, we lost our PCCA membership. So, having to use a competitor, I phoned them for a formulation consultation to help me solve a problem. I was shocked when they said it would be two weeks for them to come up with a formulation. I told them the patient doesn't have two weeks, they have two hours! So I was on my own. Using what I had previously learned at PCCA, I came up with a formula for a very bitter suspension. In 2013, when I opened my own compounding pharmacy, there was no question in my mind about the value that PCCA would bring to my practice, myself, the clinicians I collaborate with and, most importantly, the patients I serve.

What is your favorite PCCA base?

PracaSil^®-Plus for its skin-nourishing qualities. LoxOral ^® for the ease in compounding capsules. Lipoderm for its excellent skin penetration, its feel and its lack of smell.

What is your favorite PCCA event?

The annual HRT Las Vegas Symposium, as it is so great to collaborate with like minds and discuss cases, and it is exhilarating to be at the forefront of HRT therapies. My brain is popping throughout the event.

When was the last time a patient thanked you, and why?

Yesterday, a patient came in to pick up his first prescription of low-dose naltrexone (LDN). He has been suffering for years with his condition and has been waiting to be considered for a biologic. I had talked with him about the potential benefits of LDN the day before and had faxed the recommendation to his rheumatologist. She approved and prescribed it immediately. He was thankful for the chance to try something different because to date, nothing has given him relief.

What do you wish you could tell new compounders?

Listen to all of the patients closely. Ask about their families. Inevitably, someone has an issue that is an opportunity for you to help with. I was surprised when I got a call from a community 600 km (373 miles) away. It was a patient whom I had helped years before with a burn when he was on holiday near my pharmacy. He was now calling for assistance with his sister in the next province who had a diabetic ulcer. You never know when you will be needed, and being present for every patient encounter will earn you a reputation as a "healer."

What is your favorite thing about your job right now?

I love problem-solving. I especially love when I get physician referrals for complex cases. This is my time to shine and to showcase what we can do for the patient. The payoff is huge when you earn the trust of a physician to be a part of their team.

What is your personal motto or words to live by?

Work hard, play harder.

What do you enjoy for fun?

Telemark skiing, cross-country skiing, golfing, hiking, playing hockey, and enjoying family time either doing these activities or playing games.

Profiles in Personalized Medicine - Ashley Nolan

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 12:48:35 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Ashley Nolan, BSc, CPhT, a co-owner of Martin's Wellness & Compounding at Lamar Plaza Drug Store in Austin, Texas. They have been proud PCCA members since 2010.

How long have you been compounding?

I have worked in pharmacy for 23 years and spent the last 18 years as a compounder.

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

Yes. You could say pharmacy runs in my family. I grew up helping out at my mom's pharmacy in Sherman, Texas. She had a long-term care pharmacy at the time and often would be the on-call pharmacist. There were weekends where she would put me to work pulling all the medications and packing the orders. Then I would hop out of the car and deliver to the nurses’ stations at the local long-term care facilities.

It was an exciting time for me as a 10-year-old. Mom made it a family affair. As children, my brother and I always attended pharmacy conferences in exciting places — sort of like a vacation! I met many of the pioneers in Texas pharmacy and beyond. I learned about pharmacy operations before I even knew that was what I was doing. I enjoyed meeting the brightest and most influential people in the profession, and those relationships have led to great resources and provided me mentors during my career.

When did you learn about compounding?
I moved to Austin, Texas, in 2002 and started working for a local, independent compounding pharmacy. I was interested in learning the art of making customized medications, so they moved me into the compounding lab to begin training. I remember my first day: I made nothing but slow-release progesterone capsules all day long. I think the trainer wanted to make sure that I never forgot how to put together a capsule machine.

What do you find most fulfilling about compounding?

The most amazing part of my job is the joy of helping others — learning the latest developments, investigating and then creating a preparation that improves a patient’s quality of life. It's pretty incredible to be a part of a patient’s health care journey and help in their recovery or healing or maintaining better health.

“The most amazing part of my job is the joy of helping others — learning the latest developments, investigating and then creating a preparation that improves a patient’s quality of life.”

What are some of your favorite PCCA formulas?

Tetracaine popsicles using MucoLox^™ (PCCA Formula #11430) is a favorite formula of mine. Patients are typically prescribed these to use at home, between pain medication. We have also made this formulation into a MucoLox oral spray for adult use.

Another formula that I like is amitriptyline topical cream with Lipoderm ^® (PCCA Formula #9342). Some of my local veterinarians prescribe amitriptyline for felines needing pain management. I had one four-legged patient in particular who really couldn't tolerate oral amitriptyline because of the bitter flavor. This cat was not having it. He would stay up nights, meowing in pain, causing an issue with his owners. His pet-dad wasn't getting any sleep before long days at work, and kitty's mom was pleading. If we couldn't get kitty some relief, then her husband was going to have him put down.

I talked to George in Clinical Services at PCCA, and he recommended preparing it topically using a permeation-enhancing base. The veterinarian agreed, and the cat’s mom was on board. I checked with her the following day, and kitty slept all through the night.

What are some of your compounding pharmacy success stories?

We had a concerned parent reach out to us. Her 3-year-old had a neurological condition that caused his facial muscles not to work well, so he was constantly drooling, which was causing a rash. We worked with the child’s doctor and PCCA Clinical Services to create an oral paste with glycopyrrolate and flavored it so that it tasted like icing. The patient responded well and liked that taste so much that when his dad applied the medicine to his gums, Mom was happy, and the 3-year-old felt better.

Additionally, we have filled prescriptions for a patient for many years who suffered a terrible back injury more than 30 years ago. She is on multiple pain medications and suffered side effects like dizziness, which eventually caused a fall and broken collarbone. Her doctor wanted her off of the oral meds because of that. Working with the doctor, we came up with something that fit her perfectly. She is now off her former medication and using a lesser dose of narcotic with the application of a combination pain cream made with Lipoderm.

What advice would you give to a new compounder?

I have a few:

Always ask questions.
Take your time. It’s better to get it done right than right now.
Get to know your customers. People like to do business with people they like.
Cultivate relationships with your doctors and their office staff. They will rely on you to help their patients and them when prescribing compounds.

Profile In Personalized Medicine - Ginny Isbell and Terry Wingo

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 13:28:37 GMT

By PCCA

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Ginny Isbell, PharmD, and Terry Wingo, RPh, FACA, owners of Madison Drugs in Huntsville, Alabama. They have been proud PCCA members since 1997.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?

Ginny: I had a conversation with my cousin, who had been a marketer for PCCA, that sparked my interest in compounding. I had researched and compounded a few suspensions, but I didn't really know how important and necessary patient-specific compounding was until that conversation. I was then introduced to Terry Wingo, who presented compounding as an opportunity to continue my pharmacy education. I began working with Terry in 2006. I worked one week before I was off to Houston for PCCA's Primary Training (now known as CORE Compounding Training). I came back to the pharmacy asking to go to PCCA's Endocrinology Symposium and have not grown tired of learning yet.

What was your toughest patient problem? How did you solve it? Please be as specific as possible.

We had a gastric-bypass patient who could not get the correct dose of her medication in a commercially available tablet. I worked with her and her doctor to formulate a suspension, but even with all of my flavoring tricks, I could not please her taste buds.

We discussed other options. I knew the medication would have to dissolve quickly and easily for her to be able to absorb it, but at the same time not so fast that she would taste it. The prescription required more active powder than would fit in a tablet triturate, and adding sugar was not the best option for her.

We spent quite a bit of time developing a base and finding a mold that would work. We ended up with a wax-like tablet that was easy to swallow without tasting it, but would also easily melt once it reached the stomach. She loved this option.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience?

That’s a hard question to answer. Is it the person who has had shingles for weeks and is just now finding relief (and sleep), is it the person with multiple allergies who can now take their medication, or is it the woman who was able to get pregnant or the one who was able to stay pregnant this time? I don't know how to choose my most satisfying patient experience, but I do always like helping people who have been fatigued for a period of time. I love watching them get their life back after we work on balancing their hormones and supporting them with nutrients.

What is your favorite PCCA base, and why?

VersaBase® Cream, because most people with sensitivities can tolerate it and it’s useful for multiple applications from BHRT, dermatological, and even vaginal use.

What is your favorite PCCA educational event, and why?

My introduction to hormones at the Endocrinology Symposium 2006 is still my favorite PCCA event. I am so thankful I was able to learn from David Brownstein, Eldred Taylor, James Wilson, Jim Paoletti, David Zava and more at my first hormone conference. This was a perfect introduction to the hormone symphony. This is also where I learned how much I did not know along with what I needed to do to try to catch up.

What do you wish you could tell new compounders?

Never stop learning.

What is your favorite thing about your job right now?

Most everything, and the fact that I never get bored.

What do you enjoy for fun?

Being outside ... especially near water.

Profile In Personalized Medicine - Bob Mehr

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 15:42:05 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Bob Mehr, BScPharm, FAPC, President and CEO of Pure Integrative Pharmacy #25 in Fort Langley, British Columbia, Canada. He has been a proud PCCA member since 2000.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?

I became interested in compounding when I realized that many patients cannot tolerate certain commercially available pharmaceuticals, especially women suffering from symptoms of menopause. I could not imagine that one pill or one strength could look after everyone’s pharmaceutical needs.

I started to look into options. I started to do some research on the internet while also asking my colleagues in the U.S. where I could learn about the art of compounding. All signs pointed toward PCCA. So I made a call and made the commitment to attend the Primary Training course (now CORE Compounding Training) in Houston. After attending the training, I fell in love with PCCA and continued my educational path by attending all their seminars and courses, including aseptic training.

What was your toughest patient problem?

My toughest patient problem involved a postmenopausal woman unable to alleviate hot flashes, night sweats and all her other symptoms. We finally found a solution that worked for her using balanced dosing with unique formulations. I monitored her symptoms daily, and I was on the phone with PCCA clinical compounding pharmacists regularly trying to figure out how we could solve her problems. After three months of research and looking for a solution, while also working with her physician closely, we were able to relieve all her symptoms.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience?

It was back in 2003. I attended PCCA’s Aseptic Training course (now Sterility Assurance Training) in Houston. After learning all the techniques, I built a clean room in one of my pharmacies. This was a big step for me. There was a patient who had a spinal injury due to a motor vehicle accident. She would be wheelchair bound for rest of her life. Her doctor called me and asked if I could create a sterile compound for an intrathecal pain injection on a bi-weekly basis. I agreed to do it.

I just wanted to make sure I was doing all the right things to help this patient. The first time I made this sterile injection, I was so nervous. I was by the phone all day long until the doctor called me and said the procedure went well and helped the patient.

That was truly one of the moments that I will never forget in my life. I ended up making that compound every two weeks for four years. This patient came to our pharmacy every single week in her wheelchair and thanked me for giving her a higher quality of life. She still sends me thank-you letters on a regular basis.

What’s the biggest “aha” moment you’ve had as a member of PCCA?

When I first visited PCCA back in 2001, I was so impressed with the quality of experts they had and also the quality control for their ingredients.

What is your favorite PCCA base, and why?

VersaBase® Cream. It can be used in formulations for HRT, dermatological issues or cosmetics. It has no smell, is easy to work with and feels great on the skin. Our patients love this base.

What is your favorite PCCA educational event, and why?

The HRT Symposium in Las Vegas. There are always great speakers at this event, and I learn so much.

What advice would you give a new compounder?

Never, ever compromise your quality. Always buy the best ingredients, invest in your facility and equipment, and always provide your staff with ways to expand their education and training.

What is your favorite thing about your job right now?

Helping my patients to take control of their own health by educating them on what their options are.

What is your personal motto or words to live by?

"The greatest wealth is your health." – Virgil

What is the best word to describe your life?

Gratitude.

Profile in Personalized Medicine - Angie Huff

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 13:09:55 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Angie Huff, PharmD, owner of The Wellness Corner Compounding Specialist in Prairieville, Louisiana. She has been a proud PCCA member since 2009.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?

During my clinical rotations in pharmacy school, I was blessed to rotate at a wonderful compounding pharmacy in my area, Prescription Compounds. I was intrigued by the work they were doing in the realm of autism and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). After a short time in the retail pharmacy area, I opened my own independent pharmacy in 2005. I knew that I needed to join PCCA to set my compounding practice apart and to gain invaluable knowledge.

What was your toughest patient problem?

My toughest patient case recently involved a woman with severe issue that left her with multiple organ lesions and subsequent pain. We worked extensively with her and her doctor to formulate a customized preparation that provided pain relief. She is a mom of three and a wife, and could not afford to be drowsy. We successfully formulated a rectal formulation that relieves her pain and causes minimal side effects.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience?

Our HRT practice allows me to develop lasting relationships with so many ladies. Time after time, these women relay stories to me about how customized, compounded HRT has made a tremendous difference in their overall lives, relationships and health. That is such a strong statement! It brings me so much joy to be able to make such a difference in their lives.

We compound customized intrathecal pain preparations as well. During follow-up calls with our patients, we hear statements like: “I can now garden with my grandchildren,” “This customized pain therapy has given me my life back,” and “Before this therapy, I could just lay on the floor. Now, I am back to hunting and fishing.” Providing these patients with an effective alternative to oral opioids and the accompanying side effects is rewarding.

What is the biggest “aha” moment you’ve had as a member of PCCA?

Discovering Wellness Works— it enlightened me to the fact that there was an entirely different facet that I could offer in my pharmacy to help patients achieve optimal health and complement our compounding practice. It led me to my interest and current practice in holistic health, nutrition and supplements.

What is your favorite PCCA base, and why?

Lipoderm^® — the versatility allows us so many topical therapeutic options.

What is your favorite PCCA educational event, and why?

International Seminar. I always learn so many pearls to come back with and better my business. I always return from International refreshed and refocused on my business.

Tell us about a rewarding patient experience.

Yesterday, because I took the time to fully listen to a patient and her husband and offer them feasible solutions to better health.

In all honesty, the thank-yous are endless when you’re a compounding pharmacist. We are in such a position to help and serve.

What advice would you give to new compounders?

In the beginning of your practice, research, research, research. Call PCCA and ask questions, explore the formulas and attend the educational conferences. During the first couple of years, I called PCCA multiple times a day and spent hours browsing formulas and related studies. All of this time spent researching really led me to be a true problem-solver, which is what a compounder truly is.

What is your favorite thing about your job right now?

Serving patients, and my ability to be a resource for physicians. I love patient and physician interaction. I also love being a pharmacy owner. It allows me freedoms to explore many aspects of pharmacy and to be creative.

If you weren’t a compounder, what would you be?

A functional medicine physician. I love listening to patients and hearing their entire stories and showing them how, oftentimes, their symptoms are all related. I love holistic health care.

What is your personal motto or words to live by?

This motivational quote hangs in my office: “Enjoy Each Day; Be Present; Breathe Deeply; Show Gratitude; Live with Intention; Be Fearless; and Try New Things.”

What are the best words to describe your life?

Rewarding and balanced.

Profile In Personalized Medicine - Masoud and Anna Rashidi

Thu, 07 May 2020 12:46:16 GMT

by PCCA

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Masoud Rashidi, PharmD, RPh, and Anna Rashidi, PharmD, RPh, of Innovative Compounding Pharmacy in Folsom, California. They have enjoyed being PCCA members since 2006.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?
Anna attended a PCCA student boot camp in 2001, where she fell in love with compounding. This sparked her passion for compounding and led her to later work with Mark Gonzalez [former PCCA member, now full-time PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist] where that passion blossomed.
Then in 2003, during pharmacy school, Anna and I had a rotation with Mark. He was a member of PCCA at the time and spoke highly of them. From the day we graduated pharmacy school, we wanted to open our own compounding pharmacy, and there was no question about being a member of PCCA.

What has been your toughest patient problem?
My toughest case was a patient with infected and painful chest wounds caused by radiation. Working with her doctor as well as Sebastian Denison in PCCA’s Clinical Services department, we created a formula using Spira-Wash® Gel and PracaSil®-Plus with phenytoin, misoprostol, diphenhydramine and metronidazole. In the end, she was very thankful.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience?
This goes back to 2008, when we had only been open for a year. We had a patient with multiple sclerosis who was looking for alternative options to what he had been prescribed before. I spoke with the patient’s doctor and one of PCCA’s clinical compounding pharmacists. Along with the patient, we all agreed to try low-dose naltrexone (LDN). When I first met the patient, he was in a wheelchair, and three months later, he walked into our pharmacy. I will never forget that moment. He told me that it had been the first time he walked after two years of being in the wheelchair and trying over six different medications. I got tears in my eyes.

What is your favorite PCCA base, and why?
VersaBase® Cream. It is elegant and easy to work with. It also helps that there are many bracketed, extended-BUD formulas for it in PCCA’s database.

What is your favorite PCCA educational event, and why?
Concierge Congress. Everyone shares info, and you get to see faces you have been on conference calls with all year. It’s a great way to learn and reconnect with colleagues.

Who was the last patient who thanked you?
The mom of a young child, after getting her son’s test results from the doctor and learning that his condition is under control because of a specific vancomycin suspension we have compounded for him every two weeks since 2016.

What advice would you give to new compounders?
Be compassionate and patient. It takes time to learn the art of compounding. Use good, trustworthy resources, and don’t cut corners.

What is your favorite thing about your jobs right now?
Helping patients, no matter how hard the regulations get. That one satisfied customer makes it all worth it.

What are your personal mottos or words to live by?
All good things come with hard work. Believe in yourself, and you can accomplish your dreams.

What is the best word to describe your lives?
Satisfied!

Profile In Personalized Medicine - Amy Hoefer

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 12:56:56 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Amy Hoefer, CPhT, Laboratory Manager and Technician of O'Brien Pharmacy, owned by Eric Everett and Lisa Everett Anderson in Mission, Kansas. They have been proud PCCA members since 1984.

How long have you been compounding?
About 12 years.

Did you always want to work in the field of pharmacy? What led you to pursue it as a career?
I live in a small town, so there wasn't much available locally, and I felt very lucky to have found a position at the town drug store. I started there at 18 years old and found that I really enjoyed it. I started in retail, then eventually accepted a position with a hospital pharmacy, where I helped with IVs and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) bags, and from there went to O'Brien. I've been with O'Brien Pharmacy for about 17 years.

When did you learn about compounding, and why did you start doing it?
O'Brien Pharmacy was my first real experience with compounding. I had no idea it was a thing until I walked through those doors for the first time. It was very exciting to find out that we actually made prescriptions versus only counting out pills. The pharmacy was very small when I started, so everything was done by pharmacists — formulating, weighing, mixing and finishing. I was eventually part of the cleanup crew. Then I moved to mixing and finishing on the nonsterile side of the business. It was exhilarating! Now I no longer work with nonsterile, unless help is needed. I am a sterile trained technician and have done that for about six years now.

What do you find most fulfilling about compounding?
I love the fact that it's customizable. Being able to compound makes the relationship with the clients more personal. I truly feel that we, as compounders, are making a huge difference in people's lives.

What are some of the challenges you have been able to overcome?
We have a client thawho has issues related to drug absorption. They were on all sorts of medications, feeding tube and constant watch, and they were wheelchair bound when they first came to us. They spend a great deal of time in the hospital and have to carry around all sorts of machines wherever they go.
We started supplying a compounded medication in an IV bag that the patient’s doctor had prescribed to help with absorption, which eventually helped them get off some of the machines and medications, and they can also eat some regular food. They are able to get out of their wheelchair, be more mobile and visit the pharmacy to let us know how they're doing. This client has become very special to the staff at our pharmacy.

What advice would you give to a new compounder?
No matter what may be happening around you, always remember that you are making something with your own two hands, and that finished product is making someone better. Some compounds are tedious, but the results make it all worth it!

Profile In Personalized Medicine - Michelle Moser

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 15:32:27 GMT

by PCCA

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Michelle Moser, RPh, FACA, FACVP, of Makers Compounding Pharmacy- in Mount Vernon, Washington. A PCCA member since 2011, Michelle graduated from the University of Washington in 1987 with her Bachelors of Science in Pharmacy.

When did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?
I started compounding in 1989 but found out about PCCA when I changed employers in 1999.

What was your toughest patient problem? How did you solve it?
A patient had been prescribed topical testosterone, but it seemed like with every base we made his prescription in, the preparation would bead up rather than absorb into the skin. We tried several bases during subsequent refills. I then found out that he was going through heavy-metal detox, so we asked him to change shower soaps. That allowed him to start absorbing his testosterone compound.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience?
We have so many success stories of women who finally have their lives back after balancing their hormones through testing and individualizing their estrogen, progesterone and testosterone doses. This includes a gynecologist who had written me an email in which she stated that she believed an “equine estrogen product was much closer to that of a human structure than a plant could ever be.” She was therefore very resistant to write any bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) prescriptions. When she hit menopause, I was there for her, and now she is on BHRT herself.

What’s the biggest “aha” moment you’ve had as a member of PCCA?
It’s a tie between two events: After many years of not wanting to spend the extra money, I joined PCCA’s Compounding Pharmacy Management Services (CPMS). Every month, I find value in having Bryan Prescott, PCCA’s Director of Management Coaching Services, look over my numbers to validate the wonderful gains our team makes on a monthly basis. The other is when we joined PCCA Concierge Compounding Group #9. I was welcomed by warm friendships — the sharing is open and always useful.

What is your favorite PCCA base, and why?
WO6® Anhydrous Topical Gel— It’s just so easy, and now we can extend the BUD for many compounds.

What is your favorite PCCA educational event?
Concierge Congress, hands down.

When was the last time a patient thanked you, and why?
About an hour ago, because I took the time to listen to the patient’s needs and find professional-grade supplements and a compounded prescription to help them feel better. This is after they had been searching for the right provider for many, many years.

What is the one thing you would say to new compounders?
Take time to invest in yourself to gain knowledge of how to compound, when to compound and why to compound. It’s a passion, not just a profit center.

What is your favorite thing about your job right now?
I absolutely love my staff. They are amazing, support each other and are always looking to make compounding better. They really take care of our customers.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?
Cooking for my family, talking around the dinner table and just spending time with them.

What is the best word to describe your life?
Blessed.

My personal motto/words to live by:
Don’t worry, just believe.

Profile in Personalized Medicine - Rachelle Whitaker

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 18:39:53 GMT

By PCCA

Our January Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Rachelle Whitaker, CPhT, a compounding technician at The Compounding Lab in Huber Heights, Ohio. The Compounding Lab is owned by PCCA member Tim Clark, RPh, and led by compounding pharmacist Robyn Crow, RPh.

For how long have you been compounding?
I was 19 years old when I started compounding. I took my first pharmacy job in 2004 at a long-term care pharmacy. Since that time, I have had the opportunity to work in several different compounding settings.

When did you learn about compounding? Why did you start compounding?
Over the years, I've learned sterile and nonsterile compounding working in long-term care, a home infusion pharmacy and a local hospital. I took my love for compounding to a new level when I joined The Compounding Lab in 2017.

I was so excited to learn how to make things like capsules, suppositories, lollipops (my favorite), troches and more. Robyn Crow, our compounding pharmacist, and the other techs taught me so much, and I am truly grateful for the knowledge they have given me. One of the things I think we do best at The Compounding Lab is hormone replacement therapy. Robyn is so great at working with doctors to develop the best regimen for each individual patient. Hormone issues affect such a large percentage of our population; I know this personally, as I suffer with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). When hormones are out of whack, they can really take a toll on your physical and mental well-being, so I find it very rewarding that we are able to help our patients get that part of their lives back. Pediatric medications are another one of my favorites.

What do you find most fulfilling about compounding?
I love that we can make a medication for our patients who are children that may not be commercially available in a pediatric dosage, but could be very beneficial to their treatment. Not only does it help the child with their condition, but it also gives the parent(s) peace of mind.

What are some of your favorite PCCA formulas? What do you like about them?
My favorite PCCA formula to compound is for tetracaine lollipops (PCCA Formula #5380). We have received very good feedback from patients and their doctors. They are fun to compound, and it makes me happy that we can help these patients.

PCCA members with Clinical Services access can see Rachelle’s favorite formula for tetracaine lollipops in our formula database.

What is one of your favorite compounding success stories?
We have a young patient with rheumatoid arthritis who was practically bedridden before her doctor ordered allergy testing and found that the medications she was taking to help her arthritis were actually making her sick. Since coming to us to make her medications allergen free, she has been able to enjoy a higher quality of life.

What advice would you give to a new compounder?
I would tell them to take it slow. It takes time and patience to develop good technique. Also, take notes and do your research. There is so much to learn that it can seem overwhelming at times. I have been doing this for years and feel like I learn something new almost every day. If you stick with it, and it is something you really enjoy, it can be the best career path you will ever take!

Profile in Personalized Medicine - Charles Wall

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 18:42:00 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Charles Wall, DPh, owner of Heartland Apothecary located in Knoxville, Tennessee. A PCCA member since 2009, Charles graduated from Samford University for both his undergraduate and pharmacy school education.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?
After being in sterile IV pharmacy for the first 15 years of my career, I completed the nuclear pharmacy program at Purdue University and needed my practical hours. I trained at a nuclear-medicine site that also made a few compounds a day and found this model interesting. When I started the pharmacy, I intended to open as a nuclear site first and add compounding to our pharmacy services later, but due to the market, I flipped the model and started compounding first and never looked back. I had known about PCCA for a long time and reached out to Tim Adams of PCCA Outside Sales with some general questions, and we just took it from there.

What was your toughest patient problem? How did you solve it?
We had a patient with recurrent vaginal yeast who was unresponsive to commercially available products. So we worked with her health care provider to develop a suppository that included four antibiotics and antifungals that we recommended based on her lab test results. After two rounds of therapy, the patient reported improvement and the symptoms have subsided. The patient is experiencing a reduction in pain as well as other issues. We used PCCA formulas and combined a couple in order to offer the patient ease of application, and the results have been well received.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience?
Extending the life of an elderly canine patient who was experiencing seizures. She enjoyed a year of nearly seizure-free life.

What is the biggest “aha” moment you’ve had as a member of PCCA?
The exposure to others who practice at the cutting edge of the profession. Seeing others approaching this niche area and using it to springboard onto other things and not be boxed in .

What is your favorite PCCA base, and why?
LoxaSperse® . It has so many useful applications and great results. One patient in particular had issues absorbing drugs. We tried several different capsule formulas and fillers, and we achieved adequate absorption by adding a low percentage of LoxaSperse to the formula. The resulting levels have stabilized, and the patient is now enjoying better quality of life.

What is your favorite PCCA educational event, and why?
In my first C3 compounding course at PCCA, I made some lifelong friends and was exposed to more about compounding than I ever would have expected.

When was the last time a patient thanked you?
It seems almost daily we hear from patients on hormone replacement therapy about how it has improved their lives and their spouses’ lives.

What is the one thing you would say to new compounders?
I preach it to students in each pharmacy school rotation: Use the profession as an entry to other things you enjoy — be it investing, another hobby or another profession. Pharmacy compounding allows you to grow quickly, so use that opportunity early, and you will reap many benefits later.

Profile In Personalized Medicine - Karen Francis

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 15:16:00 GMT

By PCCA

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Karen Francis, RPh, owner of Compounding Wellness Pharmacy located in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. A PCCA member since 2003, Karen graduated in 1985 from the College of Trades and Technology, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?

My interest in compounding sparked at a young age. In my last year of high school, I worked as a cashier in a family owned and operated independent community pharmacy. To help pay for university, I stayed on and worked part time during the school year and full time during the summers. My plan was to study French and linguistics. However, the owner of the pharmacy asked me if I'd like to work with him in the dispensary during the summer. Parkdale was the go-to pharmacy in St. John's. If you could not find something, you would go to Parkdale, and the owner would find it for you. He always said, "If you can't fill your customer's prescription, you shouldn't call yourself a pharmacy.” He always went that extra mile.
Their pharmacy was innovative, ahead of its time and, most importantly, always working to meet and exceed their customers’ needs. Compounding techniques were very different back then. I remember lots of powder papers, glass ointment slabs and the torsion balance. My career path changed because of the time I spent at Parkdale.

In 1995, I started my own business and opened my own community pharmacy in a neighboring city near St. John’s. I became a PCCA member in 2003. It was a natural fit for me. I never conformed to the fact that one size fits all in medicine. Becoming a compounding pharmacist and working closely with PCCA is a gift that keeps on giving. The guidance and partnership from PCCA, along with the wonderful, caring team of pharmacists, technicians and assistants I work with, has granted me the opportunity to continue Parkdale’s legacy, ideologies and values about patient care by taking it to the next level.

What was your toughest patient problem? How did you solve it?

A close friend ruptured his Achilles tendon and required surgery. Unfortunately, while recovering and wearing a boot cast, it became severely infected. Due to the location of the infection, traditional therapies for wound care were difficult to apply and therefore ineffective. As a favor, he asked me to look at it and perhaps give him some advice. I was a young compounder at that time and had no experience with wound care. I quickly remembered why I chose pharmacy as he removed the dressing and showed me the wound. It was difficult not to show emotion or get sick from the odor. I was anxious to help. We took photos, and I called PCCA for formula suggestions. The consultant who called back was knowledgeable, and he took the time to explain why he suggested each active pharmaceutical ingredient and base. The next step was to speak to his family doctor. The patient-doctor-nurse-pharmacist relationship is critical for optimal patient care. I offered him another option using multiple active ingredients and Polyox® powder as the base. He reluctantly agreed. With a few tweaks to the original formula (as each patient is unique), there was marked improvement within two weeks. This was noted by the wound care nurses responsible for his daily care. He had a long recovery with corrective skin surgery required, but he will be always grateful for our help.

What is your favorite PCCA base, and why?

MucoLox™. It's so versatile. It can be used in an endless number of applications. We have had great results both orally and vaginally.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience?

I have had so many satisfying patient experiences. I can't narrow it down to just one. As a women's health consultant and advocate, I have been blessed to have spoken to and have met with so many wonderful women from all age groups — each seeking advice and help in dealing with the numerous symptoms associated with hormone imbalances, nutrition and stress-related issues through the pre- to postmenopausal years. Most women "knew something wasn't right" anymore. Some may laugh, but in my little corner of the country, I've become known as "the hormone lady.” Women's health will always be my passion. I feel it's my responsibility as a pharmacist to correctly educate around the "taboo" subject of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), by providing each patient and her physician with the most current and up-to-date information and treatment options. This allows a woman and her physician to make an informed decision on if she should use BHRT or not, based on her own individual symptoms and risk factors. Knowledge is power.

Hopefully, the days of "one size fits all” medicine will soon be over. Compounding has opened so many doors for me. Cyril Lee, my marketer, and I have built relationships in the community by doing lunch and learns with small groups of physicians. These are unique opportunities to meet the doctors in local neighborhoods. Unlike traditional pharmaceutical sales, we are not promoting a particular drug or class of medication. We are adding tools to their repertoires. We give them an opportunity to think outside the box for individualized treatment options. PCCA has given me the confidence needed to advocate for all of my patients. They provide us with current and topic-related formulas and information sessions that are unbiased. They are constantly adding to their product line, making my role as a problem-solver even more exciting.

What’s the biggest “aha” moment you’ve had as a member of PCCA?

Probably the biggest "aha" would have to be the very first compound we prepared. It was actually a double "aha." A first-time mom had a young boy who was experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease, and she was having a difficult time giving him the medication. He did not like the flavor. The only commercially available product at the time was Zantac®. She and her family were already patients at the pharmacy, so we already had an existing relationship, built on trust. As a young pharmacist, up to this point, I had not developed the confidence to speak to a physician on an equal level as a fellow professional. They would call in prescriptions; I would take their orders. However, I had just recently attended training at PCCA. I learned so much and gained confidence in my ability as a pharmacist. My brain was on overdrive. I wanted to share this new information with any and all who I felt could benefit.

I suggested to the mother that I would reach out to her son’s physician and suggest something else. This was unheard of at that time in my career. I gathered up the courage to make the phone call and dialed the number. Panic had taken over. He answered. I explained who I was and why I was calling, and I made my first recommendation. I'm sure he knew I was nervous. You could hear it in my voice.

To my amazement, he was interested! He absolutely approved, and we chatted for a few minutes longer. He thanked me. That was part one of this "aha." Some years later, I told him that story and we laughed.

To be honest, the preparation of that first simple compound probably took us about an entire day to complete. We decided to make a partially sugar-dipped, star-shaped medicated gummy in the color and flavor of his choice. We spoke with the consultants at PCCA many times that day. They held our hand through the entire process. I can't remember exactly how many times we remade it, trying to perfect it. The ultimate test would be with the young boy. He liked it and continued to take it. Mom was happy. We did it. It was a homerun!
I'll never forget the feeling on that day. That is what pharmacy is all about. This is the true role of a pharmacist. I'm a problem-solver — this was part two of my "aha." That day, we found our home with PCCA. I've never looked back.

What advice would you give new compounders?

Do not be afraid to step outside of your box. There are so many opportunities within compounding. Choose a subject area that you show interest in and become the expert in that area. Patients will seek you out.

Do not assume that your local physicians will know about compounding, and do not be afraid to go visit them. Some actually want to know more.

Most importantly: Learn something new every day.

Profile In Personalized Medicine - Tony Jones

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 17:39:00 GMT

This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights Tony Jones, RPh, owner of Pencol Compounding Pharmacy in Denver, Colorado. A PCCA member since 1999.

How did you start compounding? What led you to PCCA?
Artie Matthys, a long time PCCA recruiter and pharmacy trainer, walked into the pharmacy, introduced himself and asked if I compounded. I said, “No,” and he informed me that I needed to be compounding. That was it for me. He convinced me, so I joined.

What makes you most excited about pharmacy compounding?
Exposure to all the unique ways we can help patients, and having to think about solutions to intriguing medical problems.

What was your toughest patient problem? How did you solve it?
I work with a family that has a daughter with a rare disease. Finding solutions to treat her non-functioning immune system, non-functioning nervous system, and allergies to dyes and fillers has been a challenging but rewarding experience. She was bitten by a tick at the age of seven, which went undetected but possibly lead to an avalanche of health issues. We continue to support her family with dye-free medications, and we have to be very careful which fillers we use to compound her medications.

What has been your most satisfying patient experience?
I love working with children who have special needs. I have a big heart for parents of sick children and the children themselves. We work with a children’s clinic that treats kids with metabolic disorders. As they age, the dose of the medication required to treat the illness changes, so we are always careful to check their dosage and counsel the parents.

What is the biggest “aha” moment you’ve had as a member of PCCA?
Chris Simmons, PCCA’s Vice President of Creative Development— he really has a wealth of knowledge. I’m better at taking care of animals because of his tutelage.

What is your favorite PCCA base, and why?
Lipoderm® — because it works for so many of the formulations we compound.

What is your favorite PCCA educational event, and why?
The C4 Veterinary Online Course because of Chris Simmons.

PCCA members can learn more about becoming veterinary compounding specialists through our C4 program on the PCCA Education page.

What advice would you give someone who is new to pharmacy compounding?
Market your ability to compound. It is the difference-maker.

Do you have a motto or words you live by?
Don’t wait until retirement to have fun. Enjoy the journey, and develop hobbies along the way.