What is the difference between Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy?

In this article, we have elaborated on the concepts of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy referring to some main aspects such as eligibility criteria, course details and job prospects of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy respectively. This would enable all aspirants having interests in these subjects to get detailed information.

To start with, let's focus on Pharmacology first.

Pharmacology

What is MD Pharmacology?

MD Pharmacology refers to the Post-graduation course that helps to gain knowledge of biological effects, therapeutic, and chemical uses of drugs. The course introduces two major topics i.e. pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Through these major subjects, aspirants get to learn about the usage as well as the safety actions of medication. It describes the effects of biologically active chemicals and also explores drugs that cause biological effects and its molecular mechanisms. Pharmacology Research also refers to the critical factor for developing modern 'personalized medicine'.

What to Pharmacologists do?

• Pharmacologists research willing humans or animals
• They develop chemical compounds as well as substances that can be used as new medications.
• Some of them focus on the effects of harmful chemicals, while others research the harmful and beneficial effects of chemicals on specific regions of the body, such as the respiratory or cardiovascular system.

MD Pharmacology: Eligibility 

Candidates who have completed MBBS or an equivalent degree from a recognized university are eligible for Doctorate of Medicine [MD] (Pharmacology) course. Candidates who have 55% of marks in MBBS degree or an equivalent degree are also eligible. This percentage of marks can be different for each college. Candidates may get an application form and apply for this course through the official website of the respective college. Also, they can directly get an application form from the admission office of the respective college for this course.

Average Course Fees: Pharmacology Course fees range from INR 10,000 to 10 Lakhs.

MD Pharmacology: Career Prospects

MD Pharmacology professionals get opportunities in the scientific areas like Drug Companies, Clinics, Military Healthcare Services, Medical Writing, Hospitals, Pharmaceutical Industries, Large Hospitals, Pharmacies, Medical Centers, Medical Shops, Laboratories, etc. They may also work in non-scientific areas like Universities, Colleges, Marketing areas, etc. These professionals may get jobs in Government, Private, and Public sectors.

Top Recruiting Organizations

Top major companies and industries offer jobs for these pharmacological professionals are Cipla, Abbott India, Sun Pharmaceuticals, Biocon, Glaxo Smith Kline India, etc.

Job Profiles

Pharmacology Professor, Tutor, Senior Manager, Medical Advisor, Professor Associate, Academic Head, Faculty, Assistant Manager, Direct Marketing Manager

Average Starting Salary: INR 2 to 15 Lakhs

Pharmacognosy

Pharmacognosy refers to the study of medicines that are derived from natural sources, as well as interactions occurring between a living organism and chemicals that may impact on the normal or abnormal biochemical function. 

M. Pharm. in Pharmacognosy: Eligibility

Candidates wishing to apply for the course need to have completed Bachelor of Pharmacy from a recognized university, with a minimum aggregate score of 50%.

Average Course Fee: INR 3K to 1 Lakh

M.Pharm. in Pharmacognosy: Career Prospects

Qualified and trained Pharmacognists serve as medical practitioners in the Indian system of medicines. Government of India appoints doctors for the Indian system of Medicines under the aegis of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy). Different State governments likewise select doctors for branches of AYUSH frequently.

Research & Medical Institutes, pharmaceutical companies such as Ranbaxy & Cipla, drug Inspection organizations, food & cosmetic industries, etc. recruit such professionals.

Top Recruiting Companies 

Ranbaxy, Panacea Biotech, Dupont, Cipla Nestle, Himalaya, Biocon, Dr. Reddy’s Lab, Aimil, Wockardht, Dabur, Marion Biotech, Intas, Mankind Pharma, Lupin, Glenmark, Bharat Biotech, Shanta Biotech, Eli lily, Reliance Life Sciences, Monsanto, etc.

Average Starting Salary: The average annual salary offered to such qualified Pharmacists in India ranges between INR 3, 60,000 and 9, 50,000.