Compounding pharmacy in Geneva: medicines made to measure

When is a compounded medicine needed?

Most treatments exist as industrially manufactured medicines. Sometimes, however, none of them fits the patient. Doctors, dermatologists, paediatricians and veterinarians then prescribe a formula that the pharmacy prepares to measure. Typical situations include:

• a dose that does not exist commercially, for example for a child or an elderly patient;
• a different form: a liquid instead of tablets for someone who cannot swallow, or a cream instead of an oral treatment;
• an allergy or intolerance to an excipient such as lactose, gluten, a colouring or a preservative;
• a combination of several active ingredients in one dermatological cream or ointment;
• a medicine that is temporarily unavailable or not marketed in Switzerland, when a preparation is an acceptable alternative.

Examples of preparations

Form	Examples of use
Creams, ointments, gels, pastes	Dermatology: eczema, psoriasis, dry or irritated skin, with concentrations chosen by the dermatologist
Capsules	Adjusted doses, excipient-free or lactose-free versions
Oral solutions and suspensions	Children and adults who cannot swallow tablets
Mouthwashes and solutions for local use	Mouth care, scalp lotions, solutions prescribed by a specialist
Suppositories	Specific doses on prescription

How does it work?

1. Prescription. Your doctor writes the formula. Send it to us through our online prescription form or bring it in.
2. Pharmaceutical check. A pharmacist checks the formula: compatibility of ingredients, doses, stability and shelf life. If needed, we contact the prescribing doctor.
3. Preparation. The medicine is prepared in our laboratory following good manufacturing practice for small quantities, with a record of each batch and each raw material.
4. Labelling and advice. The label shows the composition, how to use it, how to store it and the expiry date. We explain everything when you collect it.

Preparation time depends on the formula and on whether the raw materials are in stock. Many preparations are ready within a few working days; we tell you the expected date when we receive your prescription. Collection is possible at the pharmacy, or delivery by our driver in our local delivery area.

How much does it cost and is it reimbursed?

Service	Price
Compounded medicine	On request

In Switzerland, compounded medicines prescribed by a doctor are generally covered by basic insurance (LAMal) when their active ingredients and excipients appear on the federal list of medicines with tariff, subject to your deductible and co-payment. Preparations that are not on this list, or prepared without a prescription, are paid by the patient; some supplementary policies contribute. We tell you before preparing whether reimbursement is likely.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a compounding pharmacy in Geneva?

Yes, several Geneva pharmacies prepare compounded medicines. Pharmacie de Cologny prepares creams, ointments, capsules and oral solutions in its own laboratory at Place du Manoir 20, Cologny.

Do I need a prescription for a compounded medicine?

In most cases, yes: the formula is written by your doctor, dermatologist, dentist or vet. Some simple preparations can be made without a prescription; ask us.

How long does a compounded preparation take?

Usually a few working days, depending on the formula and the availability of raw materials. We confirm the date when we receive your prescription.

Are compounded medicines covered by health insurance in Switzerland?

When prescribed by a doctor and made with ingredients on the federal list, they are generally covered by basic insurance, after deductible and co-payment. Otherwise, they are paid by the patient.

Can you prepare a medicine for my pet?

Yes, on a veterinary prescription when the formula is feasible, for example to adapt a dose for a small animal. See also our veterinary products page.