Pharmacology and pharmacy are similar in that both fields involve medications, but the similarities stop there. Whereas pharmacologists study drugs, often for the purpose of developing new treatments, pharmacists dispense medications, administer vaccinations and provide patient education on proper medication management.
From medications to treat insomnia and sickle cell disease to medical-grade dye used during ophthalmic surgeries, innovative substances used in medicine have a team of pharmacologists behind them. Pharmacologists are responsible for researching and studying the chemical compounds that comprise medications and other medical products. They evaluate their effectiveness and ensure that drugs are reasonably safe for patients.
A pharmacologist’s subfield can significantly influence what a normal day looks like. In general, however, a pharmacologist may expect to perform some of the following tasks:
- Researching chemical compounds and other substances to evaluate them for potential use in new drug therapies
- Developing new drug therapies and studying how the body’s systems first break down and absorb the chemical compounds, then transfer them throughout the body
- Studying the potential for side effects and complications, including interactions between drugs
- Developing treatment plans, including standardized drug doses
- Writing proposals for new developmental tests and clinical trials
Pharmacologists also write scientific papers describing their research and findings. To maintain and share their expertise, they may attend scientific conferences, sometimes presenting their own original research. In this career field, it is particularly important to stay on top of the latest developments and research.
These professionals may work both individually and collaboratively. Pharmacologists can work in a variety of environments, such as hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical corporations and government agencies.2
Pharmacists are responsible for reviewing physician-provided prescriptions and dispensing medications in the correct amount and dosages. They may also check patients’ health records, including allergy information, to check for possible interactions with the prescribed medication. Pharmacists can administer vaccinations, such as flu shots and COVID shots, provide patient education and handle insurance billing issues.
Pharmacists can also work across a variety of settings. Some of them work in hospital-based pharmacies, where they dispense medications to healthcare providers who are treating patients. Others work in standalone pharmacies, as well as pharmacies located in retail stores such as supermarkets. Some pharmacists work for ambulatory healthcare service providers.3
