A potion for success

OF black magic and tantra, the only cure to an illness in the past was through magical herbs administered by enigmatic healers. These cures were often shrouded in mystery but science soon de- mystified the healing arts. Natural and synthetic drugs were discovered, invented and manufactured on large scale.

Pharmacy is the study of the origin, preparation, properties, effects, dosage and dispensation of medicines. Modern technology has influenced the pharmaceutical industry as well and the old method of mixing chemicals and potions has been replaced by mechanised concoctions and manufacture of medicines. Companies like Dr. Reddy's and Ranbaxy have accomplished what few Indian pharmaceutical companies could; path breaking research and global visibility.

The work

In pharmacy and pharmacology, one perfects the art of drug preparation and dispensation. It is all about the development and preparation of drugs from natural and synthetic sources. Pharmacists act as consultants to health practitioners and the general public concerning adverse drug reactions, side effects, and interactions.

Pharmacists also specialise in particular remedies for diseases like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure etc.

Research

Pharmacists can find work with government sponsored and private research laboratories. They study drug compounds and properties to derive enhanced formulae to the existing drugs. For those enamoured by the sights and smells of chemicals and chemical compounds, research is an apt medium.

The Central Drug Research Institute at Lucknow, National Chemical Lab in Pune and Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad are some of the government research institutes in the country.

Pharmaceutical companies

The pharmaceutical industry is a rather lucrative one, manufacturing and producing both bulk drugs and disease specific drugs. Pharmacists with a management degree can also work as supervisors, plant managers, quality controllers and production managers in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.

Pharmacists can branch out into administrative responsibilities (managers, assistant managers, branch managers, regional managers and graduate to being the vice president, president and chairman). Marketing and distribution are other important and integral functions where pharmacists play a vital role. Beginning as a medical representative, they can man positions of authority and head the marketing and distribution segments. With global players now entering the Indian market, the options available are varied and challenging.

Academia

Pharmacists with higher qualifications can specialise in teaching the subject in educational institutions. Enhanced remuneration and job satisfaction makes the profession an interesting one to pursue.

Retail outlets

Retail or community pharmacists own retail outlets where medicines are stocked and supplied to other independent pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and dispensaries. They also counsel patients and offer over-the-counter advise on the contra- indications of the medicines, if any. Retail outlets also sell medical equipment and operate as chemists as well.

Others

Pharmacists can work in hospitals and clinics as well, where they are responsible for the procurement, stocking and dispensation of medicines. They can also seek employment in the Food and Drug Administration departments of the state governments. They can work as drug and narcotics inspectors. Entry is through the UPSC and state service examinations. Pharmacists can also work in banks as probationary officers.

Attributes and aptitudes

Pharmacy is a profession for those interested in mixing chemicals and coaxing reactions from chemical compounds. Research in pharmaceuticals involves long hours spent in the laboratory. This calls for endurance, perseverance, patience and physical stamina. A passion for the sciences and a scientific temperament qualifies one for a career in pharmaceuticals. Concentration, a meticulous ability for accuracy, teamwork, a sense of duty and responsibility, and a calm and composed mind is the predisposition required to excel in the field of pharmaceuticals.

What to study

Right from a diploma, which can be done after high school to a master's and a doctoral program in the subject, pharmacy enthusiasts can choose the course most suitable to their convenience. Aspirants can opt for a diploma in pharmacy after high school (10th standard), which is recognised by the State Board of Technical Education. However, entry into master's course is on the basis of a graduate degree and the GATE score.

Prospects

The trend towards preventive and remedial medicine is an impetus for an upsurge in the production of preventive drugs. With more competition and the biotechnology revolution also taking shape, good things are in store for aspiring pharmacists. More and more global pharmaceutical companies are entering the Indian market E- Merck Ltd, Zydus Cadila, Rhone Poulenc, Wockhardt, Smithkline Beecham Pharmaceuticals, Glaxo India Ltd etc are some of the huge conglomerates that generate profitable employment for pharmacists.

Pharmacists have a versatile range of specialisations to work in like industries, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, clinics, independent pharmacies, defence forces, research institutions, retail outlets, the academia and with the government. Pharmacology and pharmaceutical chemist is another avenue to be explored. Pharmacists can also mark their time as patent lawyers and experts in pharmaceutical and drug laws with an additional specialisation in legal education.

SAMYUKTA KODA

samyukta.hyd@careercommunity.co.in