This Profile in Personalized Medicine highlights pharmacy compounding technician Jeremy Emelo, CPhT, of Koshland Pharm Custom Compounding Pharmacy in San Francisco, California. Koshland Pharm is owned by Peter Koshland, PharmD, and they have been PCCA members since 2009.
 

Did you always want to work in the field of pharmacy? Why? If not, what led you to pursue it as a career?

Not really. I grew up wanting to be a football player and, of course, as a kid dreamed of playing professionally. Tackling and throwing touchdowns felt natural for me and kept me excited. I feel like now I have a different calling. Now I tackle formulas that need fixing and ways to improve workflow in our pharmacy. For me, being a part of a team that helps patients get better with our custom compounded medications is like completing a touchdown. Not sure what led me toward this career path, but I find it very enjoyable. I also feel like we’re making a difference in patients' lives.

When did you learn about compounding? What brought you into the profession?

I learned compounding about 12 years ago at a compounding pharmacy in Las Vegas. When I started compounding, I learned that there are so many different formulas for all sorts of conditions, and I’d learn something new every day. It is satisfying to know that we can customize something from a pure powder to any dosage form that doctors prescribe or to fit a patient’s need. It’s truly a blessing that we can see patients’ lives getting better from the quality of work we do.

What do you find most fulfilling about compounding?

I get to train and share my knowledge with other technicians, but also get to learn and share ideas with them, too. Watching technicians grow into great, skilled and confident compounders is very fulfilling.

What are some of your favorite PCCA formulas? What makes them effective?

One of my favorite and most prescribed formulas is the troches compounded with PCCA NataTroche® base. We receive great patient feedback on these troches due to their effectiveness, and also because they contain a natural sweetener and flavor.

Please share a compounding success story from your pharmacy—one where a person or an animal was significantly impacted by compounding.

There are so many successful stories to share but the biggest success at Koshland Pharm is our entire team, and the dedication that we all give to our patients. It starts with our processing team taking the prescription orders and giving great customer service. Our pharmacists then do a lot of research and devote their time to consultations. The tech team puts in quality work, providing attention to detail with every compound. And our shipping crew/lab assistants make sure every medication is sent out on time and to the right place. Also, our marketing team builds the strong relationships with our doctors and practitioners, and continue to grow the company. It’s truly a team effort!

What advice would you give to a new compounder?

Every day is a learning experience. Always be open and ready to learn new things. But the best advice I usually give is to always have patience and take lots of notes.