What is a prescription drug?

A compounded medication is a drug that is individually prepared in a pharmacy based on a doctor’s prescription. It is not an industrially manufactured finished drug, but rather a preparation specifically tailored to the needs of an individual patient. It is usually prepared according to the specifications of a doctor’s prescription or based on standardized compounding formulas.

A compounded medication is prescribed when no suitable over-the-counter medication is available on the market or when there are specific requirements, such as an individualized dosage, specific combinations of active ingredients, or certain dosage forms (e.g., drops or capsules).

Three main formulations are used for ALS: dextromethorphan/quinidine (DMC), 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), or ipratropium bromide. Since compounded medications are not pre-manufactured, their production is subject to strict quality requirements that pharmacies must adhere to. The safety, efficacy, and quality of the active ingredients and excipients used must be guaranteed.