A study published on PubMed indicates that 20-30% of young adults experience significant fear of needles, with this fear more prevalent in females and decreasing with age. Researchers Jennifer McLenon and Mary Rogers reviewed 119 studies and found that this phobia often leads to avoidance of medical care.
According to the Houston Chronicle, compounding pharmacies like Empower Pharmacy have become essential providers of customized medications, including oral alternatives to injectable drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide. These pharmacies serve patients with needle phobia or injection intolerance by offering formulations not commercially available. Empower Pharmacy operates both 503A and 503B facilities, enabling them to fulfill individual prescriptions and bulk orders for healthcare systems.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in PubMed reports that needle fear is prevalent among various age groups, affecting 20–50% of adolescents and 20–30% of young adults. The study also notes that needle fear is more common in females than males and tends to decrease with age. These findings highlight the need for alternative medication delivery methods for needle-averse populations.
According to Fierce Pharma, Eli Lilly has filed lawsuits against compounding pharmacies, including Empower Pharmacy, accusing them of selling unapproved versions of its diabetes and weight loss drugs, Mounjaro and Zepbound. Empower argues it legally fills a market gap amid demand and affordability issues by customizing medication for patients with prescriptions. The lawsuit underscores a broader conflict between pharmaceutical giants and compounding pharmacies, especially as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) declared an end to drug shortages, which allowed compounders to produce tirzepatide and semaglutide.
Compounding pharmacies play a crucial role in healthcare by providing customized medications for patients whose needs cannot be met by standard FDA-approved drugs. These pharmacies create tailored formulations by altering dosages, removing allergens, or changing the form of medication to accommodate specific patient requirements. For instance, patients with allergies to certain dyes or those who have difficulty swallowing pills may rely on compounded medications. The FDA acknowledges the importance of compounding when commercially available drugs are unsuitable or unavailable, emphasizing its role in addressing unique patient needs.
Empower Pharmacy is headquartered in Houston, Texas. It provides access to compound medication solutions for patients, practitioners, and pharmacies. Their mission is to expand access to affordable healthcare solutions while prioritizing patient safety, exceptional service, and cutting-edge technology.
