At Venice Apothecary & Compounding Pharmacy, we take pride in offering customized compounded medications designed to meet each patient’s specific needs. Two common liquid forms we compound are solutions and suspensions — and while they may appear similar, they serve different purposes and have important differences that impact how medications are absorbed and used.
What’s the Difference Between Suspensions and Solutions?
- Solutions are clear liquids in which the active drug is fully dissolved. Every dose delivers a consistent concentration without needing to shake the bottle.
- Suspensions are liquids where the active drug particles are not fully dissolved but are evenly distributed throughout the liquid. These must be shaken before each use to ensure the medication is properly mixed.
| Feature | Solutions | Suspensions |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Form | Fully dissolved | Finely dispersed, undissolved particles |
| Appearance | Clear or transparent | Cloudy or opaque |
| Shaking Required | No | Yes (shake well before use) |
| Stability | Generally more stable | May require special storage instructions |
| Common Uses | Small molecule medications, oral liquids | Antibiotics, antacids, pediatric medications |
When Are Solutions Used?
Solutions are ideal when:
- A uniform, consistent dose is critical
- The active ingredient can fully dissolve in the chosen liquid base
- Clear appearance and immediate bioavailability are preferred
Common examples of compounded solutions:
- Oral solutions for pain management or hormone therapy
- Topical solutions for skin conditions like acne
- Nasal sprays or ear drops where rapid absorption is needed
When Are Suspensions Used?
Suspensions are useful when:
- The medication is not fully soluble in the liquid base
- A slower, extended release of the medication is desired
- The taste or texture can be masked for easier swallowing
Common examples of compounded suspensions:
- Antibiotic suspensions for children
- Pain management medications
- Veterinary formulations for pets who need custom dosages
Why Custom Compound Suspensions and Solutions?
At Venice Apothecary & Compounding Pharmacy, we tailor every liquid medication based on:
- Precise dosing requirements
- Flavoring options for improved taste and compliance
- Allergen-free, sugar-free, or dye-free bases
- Specialized formulations for pediatric, geriatric, or veterinary patients
Our expert compounding pharmacists ensure that every liquid preparation is made with the highest quality ingredients and rigorous attention to detail—giving you the best possible therapeutic outcomes.
Why Choose Venice Apothecary & Compounding Pharmacy?
- Preferred by healthcare providers throughout Venice, Nokomis, Osprey, North Port, Englewood, and beyond
- Specialists in custom liquid formulations for adults, children, and pets
- Free statewide shipping for added convenience
At Venice Apothecary & Compounding Pharmacy, we’re committed to delivering solutions — literally and figuratively — that are as unique as the patients we serve.
Need a custom liquid medication?
Call us today at (941) 485-8205 or visit www.VeniceApothecary.net to learn more about our compounding services!