What does 'compounding' in pharmacy refer to?

Compounding in pharmacy specifically refers to the process of combining different ingredients to create a customized medication tailored to meet the unique needs of a patient. This practice allows pharmacists to produce formulations that may not be readily available commercially, addressing specific dosages, routes of administration, and even non-standard formulations for patients with allergies or specific medical conditions.

In compounding, pharmacists may adjust formulations or mix ingredients to create a medication that is precise for a particular patient. This can include altering the form of medication (such as changing a pill to a liquid), creating unique dosages, or excluding specific allergens.

The other options describe different pharmacy processes. Preparing bulk medications involves creating large quantities to ensure availability, while assessing products for quality pertains to maintaining safety standards. Standardizing medications for mass production addresses the need for consistency in commercially produced drugs, which is different from the individualized focus of compounding. Thus, the essence of compounding lies in its customization aspect, making it distinct from these other practices.