Specialty vs. retail pharmacies: What’s the difference?

Some prescriptions require more than a quick errand to a nearby pharmacy. They need special handling, close monitoring and extra support. These medications are supplied by specialty pharmacies.

Understanding the difference between retail and specialty pharmacies — and the medicines they handle — can help you feel confident about where your prescriptions are filled and why.

What is a retail pharmacy?

For most people, retail pharmacies are the preferred choice for routine prescriptions. They are located in grocery stores, big-box retailers and neighborhood drugstores. These pharmacies are designed for convenient pickup of everyday prescriptions and over-the-counter medications.

What is a specialty pharmacy?

Specialty pharmacies support patients with serious or rare conditions, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. Treatments focus on complex medications that can have serious side effects.

That’s why, unlike retail pharmacies, specialty pharmacies offer a high level of patient support — to ensure these medications are used safely and effectively.

What are specialty medications?

Specialty medications are different from everyday prescriptions. They are often high-cost drugs that may require special storage, such as refrigeration, and may involve self-injections or infusions. Because these medications frequently require ongoing monitoring, specialty pharmacies provide continuous support to help patients stay on track and avoid complications.

Examples of conditions and their brand-name specialty medications managed through Allina Health Specialty Pharmacy include:

• Inflammatory conditions: Dupixent, Enbrel, Humira, Skyrizi, Tremfya
• Allergic conditions: Xolair
• Infectious diseases: Biktarvy
• Cancer: Kisqali, Verzenio

Specialty pharmacy vs. retail pharmacy: Key differences

 Both types of pharmacies may play a role in your health care, but they serve very different purposes.

• Retail pharmacies focus on convenience. They typically handle less costly medications for the treatment of common conditions. When you visit a retail pharmacy, you can expect general advice and access to other health products like vitamins and first-aid supplies.
• Specialty pharmacies focus on safety and support. They provide customized care plans, proactive outreach to insurers and disease-specific education. They also deliver medications, so pickup isn't required.

Allina Health Specialty Pharmacy offers personalized service in five key areas:

• Clinical reviews by specially trained pharmacists to ensure medication safety and effectiveness.
• Coordination with the care team to help patients understand how to use medications and get appropriate lab monitoring for ongoing safety.
• Insurance support to assist with prior authorizations often required for specialty medications.
• Financial assistance to access copay support and grant programs.
• Prescription delivery using insulated containers and tracking systems.

Why the difference matters

The right pharmacy makes certain you receive the correct medication promptly and with the right support.

• Retail pharmacies focus on lower cost (brand and generic) oral or topical medications for common conditions.
• Specialty pharmacies partner with care teams to deliver personalized care, such as managing side effects and supporting patients with insurance approvals.

When to use a retail vs. specialty pharmacy

Insurance plans usually dictate where a specialty medication can be filled, so you might not have a choice of specialty pharmacy. In some cases, retail pharmacies can purchase specialty medications for dispensing.

If your physician prescribes an antibiotic or blood pressure medication, a retail pharmacy is usually the right choice. These medications are simple and don’t need special handling.

However, if you’re starting treatment for cancer, multiple sclerosis or another complex condition, you’ll likely work with a specialty pharmacy. Besides special storage needs, these medicines may require injection training and careful monitoring to make sure they’re safe and effective.

Key takeaways

Retail and specialty pharmacies both play essential roles in health care. Retail pharmacies offer convenience for everyday prescriptions, while specialty pharmacies provide customized support for complex treatments. Knowing the difference helps you get the care you need — without unnecessary delays or risks.