Profile of the most requested compounded formulations and user perceptions at a compounding pharmacy in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

Compounding pharmacies play a key role in personalizing medications, allowing formulas to be tailored to the individual needs of patients. The growth of this sector in Brazil in recent years reaffirms its importance in promoting access to personalized medications, as it expands therapeutic possibilities. Thus, this study surveyed the main pharmaceutical formulas requested at a compounding pharmacy in Viçosa, MG, and evaluated user acceptance and satisfaction with these formulas. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 93 adults who completed an online questionnaire regarding the use of compounded medications. The results showed that 45.2% of the compounded formulas were intended for aesthetic purposes, followed by homeopathic products (20.3%). In addition, 44.0% of users reported using these products for over five years, and 62.7% considered the compounded formulas to be as effective as or superior to the commercial medications. The primary motivation for use was the ability to combine multiple active ingredients in a single capsule (48.9%). Most prescriptions were made by physicians (51.1%), followed by pharmacists (18.5%). However, 8.7% of users reported using them without professional guidance, highlighting the need for awareness about the safe use of these medications. Although the results indicate a positive perception of the effectiveness of compounded formulas, it should be noted that these data reflect only the reality of the pharmacy participating in the study and cannot be generalized to other regions or services. New studies covering other pharmaceutical establishments may contribute to a more comprehensive and representative understanding of the use of compounded formulas.