What is compounding? Everything you need to know
Compounding is the custom preparation of medication by a pharmacist. Discover how it works, why it's legal, and what the advantages are compared to standard branded products.
What is compounding?
Compounding — also known as magistral preparation — is the preparation of medication by a registered pharmacist, tailored specifically to the individual patient. Instead of a standard pill from a factory, you receive a treatment that precisely matches your body, your dosage and your needs.
This is not a new concept. Before the rise of the pharmaceutical industry in the 20th century, all medicines were made this way. Today, it's a regulated practice that is growing in popularity, particularly for personalised treatments.
How does it work?
The process is straightforward:
Is it legal?
Yes, fully. Compounding is legally protected under:
Every compounding pharmacy in the Netherlands is registered in the BIG register and is inspected by the Health and Youth Care Inspectorate (IGJ).
What are the benefits?
Personalised dosage
Standard branded products come in fixed dosages. With compounding, the dosage is precisely tailored to your weight, health and goals.
More affordable
Branded products for weight management cost roughly €150-500 per month, depending on product and dose. Compounded preparations use the same active ingredients but without the brand markup — the price is set independently by the prescribing doctor and pharmacy, so ask for a quote before committing.
No unnecessary additives
Commercial medications often contain fillers, colourings and preservatives. Compounded preparations contain only what you need.
Dutch quality
All preparations are made by BIG-registered pharmacists in licensed Dutch pharmacies, according to the strictest European standards.
What Magistra actually offers
Magistra is a data platform, not a pharmacy-finder — we don't connect you with a compounding pharmacy. What we publish is independent GLP-1 safety and effects data, built from clinical literature, regulatory reports and community-contributed outcomes, so you and your own doctor or pharmacist can make an informed decision.
See your personalised risk profile: magistra.health/en/predictor
Magistra is a technology platform. All medical services are provided by independent, registered healthcare professionals and pharmacies. Results may vary.
See your own numbers
Our free predictor estimates your side-effect risk and weight trajectory, with the stated rates and distinct sources shown behind every figure. No signup required.
Open the predictorWorking from the data itself? The dated snapshot behind these figures is available as a one-off purchase, alongside the free public API: Data & API.