Compounding of medications for use in animals presents both benefits and concerns. Exotic animals are often too small or too difficult to medicate with drugs currently available in a Federal Drug Administration (FDA)-approved form. this article reviews current methods and problems for veterinarians who provide medications to exotic animals in forms not commercially available. Further research is required to establish standardized formulations to ensure accuracy, shelf life, and efficacy. copyright 2006 Elsevier Inc. rights reserved.