300+ Pharmacist Interview Questions and Answers

Pharmacy is the science and technique of preparing, dispensing, and reviewing drugs and providing additional clinical services.

• Pharmacists are responsible for ensuring the safe and effective use of medications.

• They work closely with healthcare professionals to provide patient care.

• Pharmacy involves compounding medications, managing drug interactions, and counseling patients on medication use.

• Pharmacists also play a role in drug research and development.

• Examples of clinical se...read more

Anti-diabetic drugs are used to manage and control diabetes.

• Anti-diabetic drugs help lower blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.

• There are different classes of anti-diabetic drugs, including insulin, oral medications, and injectables.

• Examples of anti-diabetic drugs include metformin, insulin glargine, and sitagliptin.

• These drugs work by either increasing insulin production, improving insulin sensitivity, or reducing glucose production in the liver.

• Anti-diabetic drugs a...read more

PV in pharmacovigilance stands for Pharmacovigilance.

• PV stands for Pharmacovigilance, which is the science and activities relating to the detection, assessment, understanding, and prevention of adverse effects or any other drug-related problems.

• Pharmacovigilance is essential for monitoring the safety of medicines and reducing the risks associated with their use.

• PV involves collecting, monitoring, researching, assessing, and evaluating information from healthcare providers and...read more

Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the safe and effective use of medications.

• Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients

• They provide advice on the proper use and potential side effects of medications

• They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible patient outcomes

• Pharmacists may also provide immunizations and other health services

• They must have a strong understanding of pharmacology and drug...read more

Schedule H1 drugs are prescription drugs that have a high potential for abuse and addiction.

• These drugs require a prescription from a registered medical practitioner.

• They are labeled with an 'H1' symbol on the packaging.

• Examples include opioids like fentanyl and oxycodone, as well as certain sedatives and stimulants.

• They are subject to stricter regulations and monitoring to prevent misuse and diversion.

Pharmacovigilance helps in monitoring and evaluating the safety of medications to ensure patient safety.

• Detecting and assessing adverse drug reactions

• Preventing medication errors

• Improving patient safety and healthcare outcomes

• Identifying new drug interactions or side effects

• Enhancing public health by providing valuable data on drug safety

Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a drug or substance that enters the bloodstream when introduced into the body, and is therefore able to have an active effect.

• Bioavailability is the measure of the rate and extent to which a drug reaches systemic circulation.

• It is influenced by factors such as route of administration, metabolism, and drug formulation.

• For example, intravenous administration typically has 100% bioavailability, while oral administration may have lower ...read more

Yes, there are risks associated with prescribing medicines to patients.

• All medicines have potential side effects and risks

• Prescribing the wrong medication or dosage can lead to adverse reactions

• Patients may have allergies or other medical conditions that make certain medications unsafe

• Drug interactions can occur when multiple medications are prescribed

• Improper use or abuse of medications can also pose risks

• Pharmacists must carefully consider all of these factors when prescrib...read more

The salt name of tablet Monocef O is cefpodoxime proxetil and the salt name of injection Monocef is ceftriaxone sodium.

• Monocef O tablet contains cefpodoxime proxetil as its active ingredient.

• Monocef injection contains ceftriaxone sodium as its active ingredient.

Production officer in tablets manufacturing oversees the production process and ensures quality control.

• Supervises the manufacturing process of tablets

• Ensures adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• Monitors the quality of raw materials and finished products

• Maintains production records and reports

• Troubleshoots and resolves production issues

• Collaborates with other departments such as quality control and engineering

• Ensures compliance with regulatory requirements

• Trains ...read more

Common antibiotics include penicillin, amoxicillin, and azithromycin.

• Penicillin is a widely used antibiotic that treats a variety of bacterial infections.

• Amoxicillin is a penicillin-based antibiotic that is often used to treat ear infections, strep throat, and pneumonia.

• Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is commonly used to treat respiratory infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

The 4 stages of pharmacovigilance are signal detection, signal validation, signal analysis, and signal response.

• Signal detection involves identifying potential safety concerns through various sources such as spontaneous reports, clinical trials, and literature reviews.

• Signal validation is the process of confirming the existence of a safety signal and assessing its clinical relevance.

• Signal analysis involves evaluating the data to determine the severity and frequency of the ad...read more

Five molecules of antifungal medicine

• Fluconazole

• Terbinafine

• Itraconazole

• Ketoconazole

• Amphotericin B

A valid prescription is a written or electronic order from a licensed healthcare provider for a specific medication and dosage.

• Must be written or electronic

• Must be from a licensed healthcare provider

• Must specify a specific medication and dosage

• Must be current and not expired

• Must be legible and complete

Azithromycin and Amoxicillin are two commonly used antibiotics.

• Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.

• Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections.

• Both antibiotics work by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and are available in different forms such as tablets, capsules, and suspensions.

• Azithromycin is often prescribed for respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, a...read more

LIFA stands for Latex Immunoagglutination. It is commonly used in pharmacy for diagnostic tests.

• LIFA stands for Latex Immunoagglutination.

• It is used in pharmacy for diagnostic tests.

• LIFA is a rapid and simple method for detecting antibodies or antigens in patient samples.

The main role of a pharmacist is to dispense medications and provide expert advice on their safe and effective use. A store incharge is responsible for managing the overall operations of the pharmacy store.

• Dispensing medications accurately and safely to patients

• Providing counseling and advice on the proper use of medications

• Ensuring compliance with regulations and guidelines related to pharmacy practice

• Managing inventory and ordering supplies for the pharmacy store

• Supervising...read more

To educate patients on how to use inhalation products, pharmacists can provide clear instructions, demonstrate proper technique, and offer written materials.

• Provide clear verbal instructions on how to use the inhalation product

• Demonstrate the proper technique by using a dummy inhaler or device

• Offer written materials with step-by-step instructions and illustrations

• Encourage patients to ask questions and address any concerns they may have

• Emphasize the importance of using the in...read more

The drug commonly used for headache is Betapyn.

• Betapyn is a pain reliever that contains ibuprofen and paracetamol.

• It is effective for mild to moderate headaches.

• Other options include aspirin, acetaminophen, and naproxen.

• The choice of drug depends on the cause and severity of the headache.

• It is important to consider any allergies or medical conditions before administering any medication.

Schedule H refers to a category of drugs that require a prescription from a registered medical practitioner.

• Schedule H drugs are considered to have a higher potential for abuse and addiction.

• These drugs are regulated by the government to ensure their safe and appropriate use.

• Narcotics are substances that produce pain relief and can be highly addictive.

• Examples of narcotics include morphine, codeine, and oxycodone.

• Antibiotics are medications used to treat bacterial infections....read more

If a medicine is not selling, I would analyze the market and the product to identify the issue and take appropriate actions.

• Analyze the market demand and competition

• Evaluate the product's effectiveness and side effects

• Consider adjusting the price or marketing strategy

• Collaborate with healthcare providers to promote the product

• Explore alternative distribution channels

• Discontinue the product if necessary

The antidote of cyanide is hydroxocobalamin.

• Hydroxocobalamin is a form of vitamin B12.

• It works by binding to cyanide to form a non-toxic compound that can be excreted in urine.

• Other antidotes for cyanide include sodium thiosulfate and amyl nitrite.

• Cyanide poisoning can be caused by smoke inhalation, ingestion of certain plants, or industrial exposure.

• Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include headache, confusion, seizures, and respiratory distress.

Commonly used drugs for hypertension include ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics.

• ACE inhibitors (e.g. Lisinopril, Enalapril)

• Beta blockers (e.g. Metoprolol, Atenolol)

• Calcium channel blockers (e.g. Amlodipine, Diltiazem)

• Diuretics (e.g. Hydrochlorothiazide, Furosemide)

Chronic disease is a long-term health condition that persists for more than 3 months and requires ongoing medical attention.

• Chronic diseases are non-communicable and can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

• Examples of chronic diseases include diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.

• Chronic diseases can be managed but not cured, and require ongoing medical care and lifestyle changes to prevent complications.

• Chronic diseases are a ...read more

The salt name in Duolin inhaler is ipratropium bromide and levosalbutamol sulfate.

• Duolin inhaler contains ipratropium bromide and levosalbutamol sulfate as active ingredients.

• Ipratropium bromide is an anticholinergic bronchodilator that helps to relax the airways.

• Levosalbutamol sulfate is a selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist that helps to open up the air passages.

• The combination of these salts in Duolin inhaler provides relief in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructiv...read more

Pharmacists must take various precautions to ensure patient safety and avoid medication errors.

• Verify prescriptions and dosages before dispensing medication

• Check for drug interactions and allergies

• Ensure proper storage and handling of medications

• Provide clear instructions to patients on how to take their medication

• Keep up-to-date with new medications and their potential side effects

• Maintain accurate records of all medications dispensed

• Report any adverse reactions or medicatio...read more

Pharmacovigilance includes spontaneous reporting, intensive monitoring, cohort event monitoring, and electronic health records.

• Spontaneous reporting: Healthcare professionals and patients report adverse drug reactions voluntarily.

• Intensive monitoring: In-depth monitoring of specific drugs or patient populations.

• Cohort event monitoring: Monitoring a group of patients prescribed a specific drug.

• Electronic health records: Using electronic health records to identify potential adv...read more

Adverse drug reactions are unexpected or harmful reactions to medications, which can range from mild to severe.

• Adverse drug reactions can occur with any medication, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, and herbal supplements.

• Symptoms of adverse drug reactions can vary and may include rash, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or more severe reactions like anaphylaxis.

• Adverse drug reactions can be caused by various factors such as individual differences in metab...read more

Drug safety is important to prevent harm, ensure effectiveness, and maintain public trust in medications.

• Prevents harm to patients by minimizing adverse effects and interactions

• Ensures effectiveness by monitoring for efficacy and proper dosing

• Maintains public trust in medications and healthcare providers

• Examples: FDA drug recalls, medication errors, adverse drug reactions

Latin terms and abbreviations in prescriptions guide medication usage and instructions.

• Rx - Recipe, meaning 'take' or 'to take'.

• Sig - Signa, indicating how the medication should be taken.

• Qd - Quaque die, meaning 'once a day'.

• Bid - Bis in die, meaning 'twice a day'.

• TID - Ter in die, meaning 'three times a day'.

• PRN - Pro re nata, meaning 'as needed'.

• Stat - Statim, meaning 'immediately'.

Schedule H drugs are prescription drugs which are required to be sold by prescription only.

• Schedule H drugs are drugs which have a higher potential for abuse and addiction.

• These drugs are considered to be more dangerous and have stricter regulations for their sale and distribution.

• Examples of Schedule H drugs include opioids like morphine and codeine, as well as certain stimulants and sedatives.

Patent drugs are exclusive to the original manufacturer while generic drugs are copies of the original drug.

• Patent drugs are developed by pharmaceutical companies and are exclusive to them for a certain period of time.

• Generic drugs are copies of the original drug and can be produced by any company once the patent has expired.

• Patent drugs are usually more expensive than generic drugs.

• Generic drugs must have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, and route of admini...read more

Therapeutic dose is the amount of medication required to produce the desired therapeutic effect, while lethal dose is the amount that can cause death.

• Therapeutic dose is determined based on factors such as patient's age, weight, and medical condition.

• It is important to find the right therapeutic dose to achieve the desired treatment outcome without causing harm.

• Lethal dose refers to the amount of a substance that can be fatal if ingested, injected, or absorbed.

• Lethal dose var...read more

Different colour labels are used to identify drugs, with red indicating high alert drugs.

• Colour-coded labels are used to help healthcare professionals quickly identify drugs and their potential risks.

• Red labels are typically used for high alert drugs, which have a higher risk of causing harm if used incorrectly.

• Other colours may be used to indicate different types of drugs or to highlight specific instructions or precautions.

• Examples of high alert drugs include opioids, antic...read more

Cold chain medicines are medications that require specific temperature control to maintain their efficacy and safety.

• Cold chain medicines are medications that are sensitive to temperature and require specific storage and transportation conditions.

• These medicines need to be stored and transported within a specific temperature range to ensure their effectiveness and safety.

• The temperature of freeze for cold chain medicines is typically below 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahren...read more

There are several routes of administration for medications, including oral, topical, inhalation, injection, and transdermal.

• Oral - medication is taken by mouth, such as tablets or capsules

• Topical - medication is applied to the skin, such as creams or ointments

• Inhalation - medication is inhaled into the lungs, such as inhalers

• Injection - medication is administered through a needle, such as intramuscular or intravenous injections

• Transdermal - medication is absorbed through the ...read more

This question is inappropriate and unethical. I refuse to answer it.

• I cannot answer this question as it goes against ethical and professional standards.

• Manipulating someone's worst performance is not a constructive or ethical approach.

• As a pharmacist, my focus is on providing the best possible care for my patients and upholding professional standards.

• I would prefer to discuss my qualifications, experience, and approach to patient care.

• I am not comfortable with answering this ...read more

Understanding medicine, its uses, administration, and drug absorption is crucial for a pharmacist.

• Pharmacists must have a thorough understanding of different types of medications and their uses.

• They must also know how to properly administer medications to patients.

• Understanding drug absorption is important to ensure that patients receive the correct dosage and experience the desired effects.

• Pharmacists must also be knowledgeable about potential side effects and drug interacti...read more

The father of pharmacy is considered to be Abu al-Qasim al-Zahrawi, a Muslim pharmacist and surgeon from the 10th century.

• Abu al-Qasim al-Zahrawi was a pioneer in the field of pharmacy and surgery

• He wrote the book 'Al-Tasrif', which became a standard medical textbook in Europe for centuries

• His contributions to pharmacy include the use of alcohol as a solvent for drugs and the preparation of pills

• He also developed surgical instruments and techniques that are still used today

• Ot...read more

Schedule H1 drugs are dispensed only with a valid prescription and proper documentation.

• Schedule H1 drugs are classified as highly addictive and can cause harm if not used properly.

• Dispensing of these drugs requires strict adherence to legal and ethical guidelines.

• Pharmacists must verify the prescription and the patient's identity before dispensing the drug.

• Proper documentation of the dispensing process must be maintained for legal and regulatory purposes.

• Examples of Schedule...read more

Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

• Amoxicillin

• Azithromycin

• Ciprofloxacin

• Doxycycline

• Penicillin

Diabetic drugs are medications used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes.

• Diabetic drugs can include insulin, metformin, sulfonylureas, and SGLT2 inhibitors.

• Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels and is commonly used in type 1 diabetes.

• Metformin is a commonly prescribed oral medication for type 2 diabetes that helps lower blood sugar levels.

• Sulfonylureas stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin and are often used in type 2 diabet...read more

My intention is to provide excellent pharmaceutical care to patients and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

• To ensure the safe and effective use of medications

• To educate patients on proper medication usage and potential side effects

• To collaborate with healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes

• To stay updated with the latest advancements in pharmaceutical research and technology

• To maintain accurate records and adhere to legal and ethical standards

FMCG stands for Fast Moving Consumer Goods which are products that are sold quickly at a relatively low cost.

• Examples of FMCG include toiletries, cleaning products, packaged food and beverages, and over-the-counter medications.

• These products are typically purchased frequently and in small quantities.

• FMCG companies often rely on mass marketing and advertising to promote their products.

• Some well-known FMCG brands include Coca-Cola, Procter & Gamble, Nestle, and Unilever.

Operational pharmacists are responsible for managing inbound and outbound processes in a pharmacy setting.

• Managing inventory levels to ensure medications are available for patients

• Overseeing the dispensing of medications to patients

• Ensuring compliance with regulations and guidelines for medication storage and handling

• Coordinating with healthcare providers to verify prescriptions and provide medication counseling

• Handling medication recalls and returns

DOLO medicine is a combination of paracetamol and caffeine used for relieving pain and reducing fever.

• DOLO medicine contains paracetamol and caffeine.

• Paracetamol is a common pain reliever and fever reducer.

• Caffeine is added to enhance the analgesic effect of paracetamol.

• It is commonly used for headaches, body aches, and fever.

• Examples of DOLO medicine brands include DOLO 650 and DOLO 500.

Antibiotics are medications used to treat bacterial infections. Here are five commonly used antibiotics:

• Penicillin: Effective against a wide range of bacteria.

• Amoxicillin: Used to treat various infections, including respiratory and urinary tract infections.

• Ciprofloxacin: Often prescribed for urinary tract and respiratory infections.

• Azithromycin: Effective against respiratory and skin infections.

• Doxycycline: Used to treat acne, respiratory infections, and Lyme disease.