Dispensary

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Dispensary is a location where medications are dispensed, or given out. They are typically found in hospitals, as well as in some pharmacies and clinics. Dispensaries are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, and similar bodies in other countries.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of a dispensary dates back to the Middle Ages, when apothecaries would dispense herbal remedies. The modern dispensary evolved from these early apothecaries and has become a critical part of the healthcare system.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of a dispensary is to dispense medication to patients. This can include both prescription and over-the-counter medications. The dispensary is typically managed by a pharmacist, who ensures that the correct medication is given to the correct patient.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

Dispensaries are heavily regulated to ensure the safety and efficacy of the medications they dispense. In the United States, this regulation is handled by the FDA. Other countries have similar regulatory bodies.

Types of Dispensaries[edit | edit source]

There are several types of dispensaries, including:

  • Hospital Dispensaries: These are located within hospitals and dispense medications to inpatients and outpatients.
  • Retail Pharmacies: These are standalone stores that dispense medications to the general public.
  • Clinic Dispensaries: These are located within clinics and dispense medications to patients of that clinic.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Dispensary Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD