HISTORY & DEVELOPMENT OF COMMUNITY PHARMACY
Hippocrates considered to be the father of medicine, practiced medicine and pharmacy in
ancient Greece. Treatment included herbal medicines, mineral bath, exercise, fresh sea air
and Sunshine.
Galen a greek born physician, his principles of preparation and compounding were
followed in western world. He compiled a document containing Galenicals (Galenical
Pharmacy), the preparations containing one or more organic ingredients.
Drug used in early China included Ephedra, Cassia, Rhubarb, Camphor and Ginseng (500
B.C.). More than 2000 drugs are included in Charaka’s writing including; cinnamon,
cardamom, Ginger, pepper, aconite, liquorice (1000 B.C.)
In 17th and 18th century two of the eminent pharmacist contributed to the development
of drugs include Fredrick serturner who prepared salt of Morphine in 1804 which gave
him International recognition. Another pharmacist, Johannes buchner discovered salicin
in willow bark and nicotine in tobacco.
World Health Organisation published the First international Pharmacopoeia in Geneva,
Switzerland in 1951. Even before that the United States pharmacopeia was published
long back in 1820.
Minerals, plants and animal part as a component of medicines remained as useful
treatment until early 19th century. In the latter half of 19th century and in 20th century
drug therapy advance to a great extent and today we see number of synthetic drugs,
hormones, biological and immunomodulator to improve the health of human beings
“Community pharmacy” is the pharmacy which link between the community and health.” It is
a healthcare service situated in the community or locality.
Community pharmacy means any place under the direct supervision of a pharmacist.
where the practice of pharmacy occurs or where prescription orders are dispensed, stored,
supplied & sold. Community pharmacy, also known as retail or neighborhood pharmacy.
Pharmacists working in the community practice setting are either diploma pharmacists or
graduate pharmacists with D.Pharma & B. Pharm degrees
The main aim of community pharmacy is to educate the community about health and
disease.
These pharmacies are typically located in commercial settings and offer both prescription
and over-the-counter medications.
OTC & Non OTC drugs
Barbiturates
These are sedatives like phenobarbital,
Benzodiazepines
Alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin) and diazepam (Valium)
Codeine and Morphine
Importance of community pharmacy
Accessibility:
Community pharmacies are readily accessible to the public, often located within convenient
distances from homes and workplaces.
Diverse Services:
They offer a wide range of services, including dispensing prescriptions, providing medication
counseling, and offering advice on over-the-counter medications.
Health Promotion:
Community pharmacists play a role in promoting health and wellness through various
initiatives and by educating patients about their medications and healthcare options.
Patient-Centered Care:
Community pharmacies prioritize patient well-being and strive to provide personalized and
compassionate care.
Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals:
Community pharmacists often collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers
to ensure coordinated patient care.
Regulatory Compliance:
Community pharmacies must adhere to strict regulations regarding the storage, dispensing, and
handling of medications.
Ethical Standards:
Pharmacists in community settings are bound by a code of ethics that guides their professional
practice.
