Published May 11, 2026 | Version v1
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Compounding pharmacy in sports medicine: Enabling personalized therapeutics and bridging clinical gaps

Authors/Creators

  • 1. Department of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
  • 2. Department of Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation and Thalassotherapy, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
  • 3. Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria

Description

Compounding pharmacy addresses critical therapeutic gaps in sports medicine by enabling personalized formulations for injury management. This review synthesizes evidence on customized topical medications, particularly for advanced delivery systems, including iontophoresis and phonophoresis, which enhance localized drug delivery while minimizing systemic side effects that impair athletic performance. Frequently prescribed combinations incorporate analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, corticosteroids, and muscle relaxants at standardized concentrations. Clinical applications span acute injuries, chronic overuse conditions, and neuropathic pain syndromes, though randomized controlled trials demonstrate variable efficacy, necessitating cautious, patient-specific implementation. Regulatory frameworks differ substantially between jurisdictions, with European models integrating compounding within licensed pharmacy practice through centralized formularies and quality systems, while the United States maintains bifurcated oversight distinguishing traditional compounding from outsourcing facilities. These structural variations fundamentally shape the safety, accessibility, and clinical integration of personalized therapeutic solutions for active populations.

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