Pharmacists are experts on the action and uses of drugs, including their chemistry, the formulation of medicines and the way in which drugs are use to manage disease. They prepare and dispense prescribed medications. They mix and measure drug products from raw materials according to doctors' prescriptions, and are responsible for formulating, storing, and providing correct dosages of medicines, now usually produced by pharmaceutical companies as pre-measured tablets or capsules. They also advise patients on the use of both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Pharmacists are in close contact with patients, thus they have an important role in assisting patients to make the best use of their prescribed medicines. They inform patients about the medications they'll be using, its potential side effects and its dosage. They help make sure patients use drugs safely and effectively by keeping track of their progress and their responses to the drugs. Sometimes their advice goes outside the boundaries of drugs to include diet, exercise, stress management, or home healthcare supplies. Pharmacists who work in a healthcare facility are in close working relationships with other members of health care team such as doctors, nurses, dentists and others. They have responsibility to inform physicians on drug selection, dosages, interactions, side effects and cost of drugs. They keep abreast with the latest pharmaceutical products and make recommendations to doctors on what drugs are available in the market. They also manage the supply of drugs at the healthcare facility; plan, monitor and evaluate drug programs or regimens; and counsel hospitalized patients on the use of drugs before the patients are discharged.
Working environment
The environment in which the pharmacists work will have the considerable influence on their efficiency and therefore it is important to develop a tidy and organize working area. The bench that they work at and the equipment they use must all be thoroughly clean. Many pharmacists spend most of their workday on their feet. The job is mentally-demanding, requiring diligence, patience and alertness. Clean white lab coat is a must. When working with sterile or dangerous pharmaceutical products, pharmacists wear gloves, masks, and other protective equipment.
