World Pharmacist Day: why it is marked every September 25

Whenever we fall ill, we visit a doctor for a check-up and the doctor writes out a prescription. But it is the pharmacist who finds the exact medicine named on that prescription, explains the correct dose, and hands it over safely to the patient. Pharmacists are considered an extremely important and trusted link in hospitals and the healthcare system. To honour this continuous service and spread awareness of their role in society, World Pharmacist Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and respect across the world on September 25 every year.

In today's era of modern medical science, it is very important to have accurate knowledge of new diseases and the various medicines used to treat them. Pharmacists are experts in the medical field who study in depth the components of medicines, their effect on the body, the side effects caused when two medicines interact with each other (drug interactions), and the correct way to store medicines. This is why they are not merely salesmen who sell medicines, but the main guardians who protect patients' health.

In the healthcare system, doctors, nurses and pharmacists work together, and within this chain the pharmacist's role is very delicate and important. Pharmacists explain to patients, in very simple language, the correct time and dose for a medicine and what to keep in mind before or after taking it. Many times, errors made by doctors in haste or technical changes in medicines are caught in time because of a pharmacist's alertness, saving the patient's life.

According to guidelines from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), a special theme is set for this day every year. The global theme for 2026 is "Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures". In India, the Pharmacy Council of India is emphasising the campaign "Swasth Bharat: Facing Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)". The role of pharmacists is considered very important in preventing the misuse of medicines and incorrect dosing of antibiotics.

In today's era, due to the influence of the internet, many people make dangerous attempts at self-medication. Buying and taking tablets directly from a medical store without a doctor's advice, or overusing painkillers and antibiotics, can be very harmful to health. In such situations, pharmacists give patients the right advice and help prevent these harmful habits.

On the occasion of World Pharmacist Day on September 25, many hospitals, pharmacy colleges and pharmaceutical companies organise health awareness rallies, blood donation camps, free medicine distribution and seminars. Through these, the general public is given information on how to store medicines correctly, how to dispose of expired medicines, and why medicines should not be taken without a doctor's advice.

During the crisis of the coronavirus pandemic, when the entire world had come to a halt, pharmacists were among the frontline warriors who served day and night without concern for their own safety. During the difficult period of the lockdown, they delivered essential medicines to homes with great dedication. From medical research to the tablet that finally reaches a patient's hand, the pharmacist's contribution is invaluable at every stage.

Overall, pharmacists make a very large contribution to building a healthy society free of disease. This day on September 25 gives us an opportunity not just to praise their work, but also to thank these unsung heroes of the healthcare system. Only by using medicines correctly, safely and responsibly can we truly take care of our health.