The country’s first online compounding pharmacy offers senior citizens more options to achieve wellness goals and live a full life

Manila, Philippines August 3, 2023 – The country’s population is aging. The number of seniors in the Philippines has more than doubled from 4.5 million 20 years ago to 9.2 million in 2020 to account for 8.5 percent of the population, up from just 5.9 percent previously. This percentage is projected by the Commission on Population and Development (Popcom)  to reach 40 percent by 2035.

An aging population presents challenges, foremost of which are health concerns. The elderly are a vulnerable population, and so preventive healthcare solutions are necessary to ensure healthy aging. Considering the contributions the elderly have given to their family and the country during their prime, it is only fair they age gracefully and live fully as they go through their golden years.

But with physical mobility a concern for many elderly and fear of contracting COVID-19 keeping many from going to their doctors for regular checkups, more accessible and modern options such as telemedicine and virtual consultations are increasingly being adopted. Many are also turning to personalized medications, which are viable and effective options for specific health concerns and wellness goals.

Apotheca Integrative Pharmacy, the first online compounding pharmacy in the Philippines, believes in utilizing the latest innovations to enable the elderly and those nearing senior age to have a healthy and graceful experience. From virtual consultation and prescription to seamless and secure delivery of compounded medications, AIP makes it easier for the elderly to have access to the vitamins, supplements and medicines they need without having to leave the comfort and safety of their homes.

Manage pain and aches 

With age comes more wisdom and the occasional inexplicable pain and aches here and there. More than back and muscle aches, the elderly also become generally more sensitive and at risk of developing skin irritation, among others.

Common diseases associated with aging such as arthritis, diabetes and back pain can also be resolved using compounded medicines. AIP compounds prescription medications common for our elderly which includes Anti-depressant Drugs, Anti- Convulsant Drugs, Anesthetic Drugs and NSAID medications.

For one, AIP compounds Amitriptyline, a type of drug that can treat pain caused by nerve damage. Though initially created to treat anxiety and depression, this drug when used at a low dose can alleviate pain caused by arthritis, chronic neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia and back pain.

AIP also compounds Gabapentin, an anti-epileptic medication that diminishes pain transmission in damaged neurons by affecting glutamate receptors. It is best used for pain management caused by chronic neuropathic pain, diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, fibromyalgia and generalized vulvodynia.

Benzocaine offers mild pain control and is generally used for topical anesthesia. It works by blocking nerve signals in the body and provides a temporary numbing effects. Commonly used for pain management for sore throat, cold sores and teething as well as external vaginal itching and burning, benzocaine is not intended for prolonged application time or use.

For skin irritations and discomfort such as sunburn and minor rashes caused by insect bites, AIP can compound Lidocaine and Tetracaine. Lidocaine works by blocking pain signals at the skin’s nerve endings and helps reduce burning and sharp pain in specific overly sensitive skin areas. Tetracaine, is an amino-ester local anesthetic, is commonly used as a topical anesthetic for short procedures on the ears, nose and surface of the eye.

Repair and regulate hormonal imbalance

Growing old does come with a decline in physical and mental well-being due to hormonal changes and aging organs. This does not, however, mean having to live the rest of one’s life in discomfort or pain.

AIP offers specialized medicines for common health and wellness concerns such as irregular gall bladder activity, weakened immune system and overall well-being are available. The pharmacy’s Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) replicates hormones using natural resources to supplement the body with the hormones it lacks and needs. AIP compounds specific hormones based on patient requirements to ensure the compounded solution adapts to the individual’s bodily structure seamlessly.

Pregnenolone, one of the hormones that AIP compounds, may be considered a good brain enhancer. Besides improving memory and clarity of thought, it boosts vision and energy, even sexual enjoyment. Another hormone that AIP recommends for BHRT therapy is melatonin, which monitors circadian rhythm and induces drowsiness – useful for seniors who have difficulty sleeping or having an established sleep schedule.

Restore confidence

Hair thinning or loss is one of the drastic physical changes that comes with aging. Elderly males use hats to hide growing bald patches while women opt for shorter hairstyles, the changes in their crowning glory limiting their options and ultimately resulting in frustration and loss of confidence.

AIP can also compound hair loss treatments such as Minoxidil and Minoxidil combined with Finasteride, compounded formulations for treating hair loss. Minoxidil is an active ingredient used to increase hair density and revive follicles while Finasteride promotes scalp hair growth and prevents hair loss. This combination can come in topical solution or in whatever form the patient prefers.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can also be addressed by compounded medicine. Besides lifestyle changes, AIP compounds duo-mix, which contains two complementary drugs namely Papaverine and Phentolamine mixed into a sterile injection. It is traditionally done via self-injection. Tri-mix, considered to be the most powerful class of anti-ED agent, comprises Papaverine, Phentolamine and Alprostadil. It is administered through penile self-injection and can be used for a vast number of conditions other than ED.

All AIP compounded medications come in customizable dosages, forms, combinations and formulations and therefore can easily be adjusted to meet specific patient needs. This also minimizes side effects and risks of drug abuse and addiction. Allergies and sensitivities are considered per patient and can be discussed with a doctor over AIP’s website.

Give grandparents the golden years they deserve and visit Apotheca Integrative Pharmacy’s ecommerce platform for compound medications fit for their needs. Get to know more about compounding medicines and how personalized medicines can benefit elderly health. Connect to a health care professional by visiting apotheca.com.ph . Follow its social media accounts for the latest updates and facts at @ApothecaCorp on LinkedIn, @ApothecaPH on Instagram and @ApothecaPH on Facebook.

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