Sections of the FDA’s Drug Quality and Security Act (DQSA) distinguish compounding pharmacies (503A) from outsourcing facilities (503B). Due to several factors, many of which are related to drug shortages and the USP 797/USP 800 updates, 503A pharmacies are considering partnering with 503B entities for compounded sterile preparations and/or hazardous materials. We’ll discuss the differences between 503A pharmacies and 503B outsourcing facilities, review Section 503B and summarize how to effectively evaluate 503B compounding pharmacies for a potential partnership.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have revolutionized metabolic health and weight management, leading to a host of new weight loss wonder drugs. But did you know that recent evidence shows these new drugs may do more than just help with weight loss and diabetes? And at a fraction of the standard dose?

Our Profiles in Personalized Medicine highlights Peoples Compounding Center in Austin, Texas. Nicola Trevis, BS, RPhT, Pharmacy Director, shares what “Compounding: It’s Personal” means to the team, their enduring relationship with PCCA and much more. Peoples Compounding Center has been a proud PCCA member since 1985.

Individuals who suffer from symptoms of gastrointestinal, autoimmune, dermatological and pain conditions make up 80% of the patient population. But here’s the good news: multiple studies indicate that low-dose naltrexone (LDN) may potentially help many of these conditions. Take a sneak peek at topics our Clinical Services team will discuss during the Low-Dose Naltrexone One-Day Virtual Conference on Thursday, November 21, 2024.

Perimenopause is a unique phase in a woman’s life, marked by fluctuating hormones and a wide range of symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can offer relief, but a one-size-fits-all approach may not yield the best results. A personalized approach, tailored to each woman’s unique hormonal profile, lifestyle and symptoms, can make all the difference in managing this transition effectively. Let’s explore the factors that contribute to low estrogen, the role of cortisol and progesterone, and why a customized approach to HRT is essential for perimenopausal women.

At PCCA Science, we continuously build and grow scientific support for compounding and the technologies our members use in their practices. We test our bases using various methods before, during and after the release of a new product. We regularly submit results of these studies for publication in peer-reviewed journals and make them available to our members, who in turn can share them with prescribers, physicians and patients.

Since 2014, there’s been an explosion of information about the potential applications of low-dose naltrexone (LDN), including use as an adjunct therapeutic in some types of cancer. The exploration of LDN in cancer treatment underscores the importance of understanding the complex interplay between immune signaling and cancer biology, which we discuss in the following article.

ThinkNext: International Seminar 2024 (ThinkNext: ISTX24), held October 17 - 19 in Houston, Texas, was a huge success with well over 500 rockstar compounders from around the world. We’re sharing seminar highlights and memorable takeaways that make PCCA members return year after year.

October 15 is National Pharmacy Technician Day! Our Profile in Personalize Medicine highlights Katie Albers, CPhT, Pharmacy Manager and Co-Owner, along with Dawn Trame, RPh, and Richard W. Schulte, Esq., of Impact Compounding, located in Tipp City, Ohio. We asked Katie what “Compounding: It’s Personal” means to her and her pharmacy, why she was drawn to compounding and so much more.

Thyroid health plays a pivotal role in regulating metabolism, energy levels and overall well-being.1 Among the spectrum of thyroid disorders, subclinical hypothyroidism often flies under the radar due to its subtle symptoms. However, its implications on weight management warrants closer attention. Taking a closer look into what subclinical hypothyroidism entails, its connection to weight loss challenges, the importance of appropriate testing, and how excipients in medications can influence thyroid hormone absorption can help many patients with this elusive condition.