Are you looking for a way to give your pet the medication they need? Just like people, animals can have different reactions to drugs, depending on their size and weight. That’s why compounded medications are better because they are tailored to fit your pet’s needs.
So, let’s discuss the top question that you should ask your vet or pharmacist when visiting them to get medication for your pet.
What are Veterinary Compounded Medications?
Veterinary compounded medication are the medications that are made by combining, mixing and altering different medicines based on the pet’s needs, their size, species, or specific medical condition. These medications are typically made by a certified pharmacist or veterinary compounding pharmacy.
The veterinarians might prescribe these medications to a difficult pet or a pet with an allergy. Most of the time these medications are not FDA approved and there is higher risk of poor quality. That’s why it’s important to consult a veterinarian before using compounded medication for pets. Let us go through some questions that you might need to ask your vet or pharmacist.
Top 7 Questions to Ask Your Vet or Pharmacist About Compounded Pet Medications
So, now you know what veterinary compounded medications are, let’s look at the questions that you can ask your vet or pharmacists. Before you give your pet any medication, consider asking your vet or pharmacists the below given questions and make sure your pet is healthy.
1. Why is compounded medication being prescribed to my pet?
This is one of the most important questions that you should definitely ask your vet or pharmacists. You must know why the doctor or vet is prescribing these medications to your pet. Why is the generic medication not working? This helps you understand why a special version of the medicine is needed. Maybe your pet can’t swallow pills or needs a different strength. It’s always good to know the reason.
2. What are the most common forms of compounded pet medications?
Medications can come in many different forms, like flavoured liquids, chewable treats, capsules, or even topical gels. Asking about the different forms helps you better understand your options and what might be easiest for your pet to take. It can also prepare you for what to expect during treatment.
3. Why is a compounded medication being prescribed instead of an FDA-approved product?
Compounded pet medications are often not approved by the FDA. So, it is advisable to learn more about why the normal medications are not suitable for your pet and why they are prescribed compounded medication. Asking this helps you stay informed about your pet’s treatment path.
4. Is this medication safe and effective for my pet’s condition?
By asking this question, you’re making sure the compounded medication has been carefully chosen based on your pet’s unique condition, species, size, and medical history.
5. What are the risks associated with this compounded medication?
Every medication, compounded or not, can carry some risk. Asking this question gives you the opportunity to learn about any possible side effects or complications. This way, you can monitor your pet closely and react quickly if any medication doesn’t suit them.
6. What should I do if I miss a dose or my pet spits out the medication?
It’s easy for things to go off track when giving medicine to a pet; missed doses or spit-out pills are common. This question prepares you for those situations and helps you avoid mistakes that could interfere with your pet’s progress.
7. How should I store the medication, and what is its shelf life?
Some medications need to be refrigerated, while others should be kept in a cool, dry place. Asking this helps you handle the medication correctly at home and avoid giving your pet something that may have lost its strength.
Conclusion
Giving your pet the best care means asking the right questions. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers. That’s why your vet and pharmacist are there. These questions aren’t meant to challenge their expertise but to open up a helpful conversation and give you peace of mind.
Your pet relies on you to make informed choices, and asking these questions is one of the best ways to protect their health, comfort, and well-being.