The practice of preparing medications dates back to the origins of pharmacy; yet, compounding's presence throughout the pharmacy profession has changed over the years. In the early 19th century, approximately 60 percent of all medications were compounded. Then slowly, over time, with the presence of manufacturing, compounding decreased.

The pharmacist's role as a preparer of medications quickly changed to that of a dispenser of manufactured medicine. Now doctors and patients are again realising the benefits of preparing customised medications to meet specific individual needs.