The Pharmaceutical Sciences embody many aspects of the traditional science disciplines of Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Biology and Engineering in the pursuit, development, and evaluation of medicines. Traditional approaches of screening natural products and secondary metabolites are now being supplemented, and to some extent surpassed, by the de novo design of novel synthetic chemicals. In the latter respect, mechanistic studies of enzyme action, molecular biology, and state of the art graphics, and molecular modelling offer the potential for rational drug design when combined with organic synthesis.
Formulation now spearheads the development of the next generation of drug delivery systems.
These include transdermal devices and implants, in addition to the traditional areas of study such as tablets, capsules, and injections. Research is centred around an understanding of these events which are critical to the selection of new drugs and to the design of optimal dosages of drug in patients. Sources of variability include genetics, disease, age, multiple drug therapy, diet and compliance. Understanding these events is critical to optimal drug use in general and in individual patients. Such studies are embraced by the discipline of Pharmacy Practice, which is also concerned with delivery of pharmaceutical services, pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacoeconomics.