"Pharmacist" is a common synonym for apothecary. Some companies use "apothecary" to label products or describe a pharmacy with a vintage feel, staffed by licensed pharmacists.
Exercise: Discerning the Differences
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank. The main difference is that the pharmacist practices pharmacy while apothecary historically referred to a person who formulated and sold medicinal compounds.
A pharmacist is a licensed professional who dispenses medications.
Modern Apothecary is an independent pharmacy with offerings like compounding, immunizations, natural products, over-the-counter items, personalized medication consultation, and home delivery.
When did apothecaries become pharmacists?
Before the advent of pharmacists, apothecaries worked alongside priests and physicians regarding patient care. In 1241, the edict of Salerno imposed an oath on all wanting to manufacture medicines; the apothecary profession became supervised and remedy prices fixed. In 1575, “pharmacy” became the science of remedies and drugs. Around 1730, the apothecary or pharmacy corresponded to the dispensary preparing and storing drugs, remedies, and medicines.
By the early twentieth century, the transition from "apothecaries" to "pharmacies" was complete, and the production of drugs became industrialized. Today, nearly half of 300 million Americans take one prescription drug daily, accounting for $250 billion yearly U.S. sales alone, not even including over-the-counter medications and health aids.
As civilizations advanced, pharmacy evolved. In ancient Egypt, designated "houses of life" cultivated medical and pharmaceutical knowledge. Pharmacists became integral to the healthcare team, working closely with physicians to ensure the safe, effective use of medications. Pharmacy now encompasses specialties like clinical pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, community pharmacy, and pharmaceutical research.
Historical Evolution
What is the old name for a pharmacist?
Some companies label products “apothecary”.
Apothecaries dispensed and formulated medicines for doctors and patients.
Apothecaries were predecessors to modern pharmacies and specialized in herbal science, which is now the domain of pharmaceutical companies.
Through the 19th and 20th centuries, significant advancements occurred in pharmaceutical science and technology.