What are the ethics of dermatologists and plastic surgeons compounding their own products?
I’m glad you raised this issue. I think it comes down to the quality of the product (and the lab or pharmacy making it), the price and clarity/transparency of the way this is presented to you – the patient!
So in this instance, I’m going to assume that his compounded product is say……the same amount and percentage of what he would prescribe for you. Then what is the price? If he can save you money for the same product or…………create a better product for a good price, then that makes sense to me.
Also, in my opinion, the doctor and his/her staff needs to make sure that you feel absolutely no pressure. If you still want the prescription product, that should be fine!
What I don’t like is when a dermatologist or other doctors are selling products, or for example supplements, under their own private label, and pretending that these are unique, when in fact they just ordered them pre formulated from a lab and put their own label on them.
Hope this helps,
Dr. I