Pharmacy, often described as the bridge between science and medicine, has a history that spans centuries. Its evolution, particularly in India, reflects the growth of pharmacy education, the expansion of pharmaceutical industries, and the establishment of strong professional organizations. Today, pharmacy not only ensures the safe preparation and distribution of medicines but also stands tall as a dynamic career option. Unit 1 of Pharmaceutical Sciences offers an insightful journey into this transformation while also covering practical aspects such as dosage forms, prescriptions, and posology.
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The Historical Journey of Pharmacy in India
Early Development and Education
The profession of pharmacy in India has its roots in traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, where drug preparation was considered both an art and a science. The colonial era, however, brought Western medicine and modern pharmaceutical practices, creating the need for structured education.
Formal pharmacy education in India began in the early 20th century. The first diploma course in pharmacy was introduced in 1932 in Banaras Hindu University, followed by degree programs in institutions such as Bombay University. This laid the foundation for professional training and academic growth in the field.
Pharmacy Industry and Organizations
With independence came rapid industrialization, and the pharmaceutical sector in India expanded significantly. The government promoted indigenous drug production, reducing dependence on imports. Organizations like the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) and the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA) were established to regulate education, promote research, and maintain professional standards.
Today, India is a global leader in the generic drug market, exporting medicines worldwide while providing affordable healthcare domestically. This success is deeply connected to the structured development of pharmacy education and regulation.
Pharmacy as a Career
Pharmacy offers diverse career opportunities, ranging from community and hospital pharmacy to roles in the pharmaceutical industry, research and development, regulatory affairs, and academia. Pharmacists are not only dispensers of drugs but also crucial advisors on safe medication use, drug interactions, and patient counseling.
With advancements in biotechnology and clinical research, the role of pharmacists has expanded further into clinical pharmacy and pharmacovigilance, making it a profession that combines science, service, and innovation.
Pharmacopoeias: The Rulebooks of Medicines
A pharmacist’s credibility depends heavily on standards of drug quality, which are maintained through official references called pharmacopoeias. These books act as legal and scientific authorities, prescribing the identity, purity, and strength of drugs.
Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP): The official standard for drugs manufactured and marketed in India.
British Pharmacopoeia (BP): Widely respected for its comprehensive standards, often referenced globally.
United States Pharmacopoeia (USP): A benchmark for drug quality and safety, especially in international trade.
Extra Pharmacopoeia (Martindale): Though not official, it is a trusted reference for drug information, including newer medicines.
These pharmacopoeias ensure that medicines are safe, effective, and uniform across regions and manufacturers.
Dosage Forms: How Medicines Reach Patients
Medicines are rarely taken in their raw chemical state. Instead, they are transformed into dosage forms—specific preparations that ensure accurate delivery, stability, and patient compliance.
Dosage forms are classified into several categories:
Solid forms such as tablets, capsules, and powders.
Liquid forms including syrups, suspensions, and emulsions.
Semi-solid forms like ointments and creams.
Gaseous forms such as inhalers and aerosols.
The choice of dosage form depends on factors like the drug’s nature, the desired speed of action, and patient convenience. For instance, injections provide rapid action, while tablets offer ease of administration and portability.
Prescription: A Pharmacist’s Daily Document
Definition and Parts
A prescription is a written order from a qualified medical practitioner directing the preparation and administration of a medicine. It typically contains the patient’s details, the drug name, dosage, instructions for use, and the prescriber’s signature.
Handling and Errors
Pharmacists must handle prescriptions with care, ensuring they are interpreted accurately. Errors in prescription—whether due to illegible handwriting, incorrect dosage, or inappropriate drug choice—can have serious consequences for patient safety. Hence, precision and vigilance are vital in the dispensing process.
Posology: The Science of Dosing
Posology is the study of drug dosage. While the therapeutic effect of a medicine depends on its active ingredient, the correct dose ensures its safety and effectiveness.
Factors Affecting Dosage
Dosage is not uniform for every individual. Factors such as age, body weight, body surface area, sex, physiological condition, and even environmental influences affect drug requirements. For example, children and elderly patients often require adjusted doses due to differences in metabolism.
Pediatric Dose Calculations
For children, special formulas are used to calculate doses safely:
Based on Age: Young’s rule and Dilling’s rule.
Based on Body Weight: Clark’s rule.
Based on Body Surface Area (BSA): Considered most accurate for pediatric dosing.
These methods ensure that young patients receive the right therapeutic benefit without the risk of overdose.