Statutory provisions in some countries may require that certain positions be held by pharmacists. The main activities of industrial pharmacists are described below.

Research and development

Pharmacists contribute to research, and their expertise in formulation development is of particular relevance to the biological availability of active ingredients.

Manufacture and quality assurance

The pharmacist’s broad knowledge of the pharmaceutical sciences ensures an integrated approach to quality assurance (including good manufacturing practice) through the validation of the various stages of production and the testing of products before release.

Drug information

The pharmacist has the knowledge and expertise to provide detailed information on medicines to members of the health professions and the public. Also, pharmacists provide an information service within the company.

Patent applications and drug registration

The pharmacist is ideally qualified to understand and collate the diverse information required for patent and authorization submissions.

Clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance

The pharmacist has the knowledge of drugs and health care provision required to facilitate collaboration between companies, health professionals and governments in relation to clinical trials and surveillance.

Sales and marketing

The pharmacist, whose professional ethics demand a concern for the interest of patients, can make a contribution to proper marketing practices related to health care and to the provision of appropriate information to health professionals and the public.

Management

The inclusion of pharmacists in all levels of management promotes an ethical approach within management policies.