Ernst Christian Friedrich Schering

Ernst Christian Friedrich Schering (31 March 1824 – 13 December 1889) was a German pharmacist and industrialist who founded the pharmaceutical company Schering AG in 1851. His contributions to the pharmaceutical industry and his pioneering work in the development of chemical compounds for medicinal purposes have made him a significant figure in the history of medicine and pharmacology.

Early Life and Education

Ernst Schering was born in 1824 in the town of Güstrow, in the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, now part of Germany. He pursued his education in pharmacy, a field that intrigued him from an early age, showing a keen interest in the chemical aspects of the profession. After completing his apprenticeship in pharmacy, Schering furthered his studies at the University of Berlin, where he was exposed to the latest developments in chemical research and pharmaceutical sciences.

Career and Contributions

After his studies, Schering initially worked in various pharmacies, gaining practical experience. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own pharmaceutical workshop in 1851, which marked the beginning of Schering AG. His company specialized in the production of pharmaceutical chemicals, which were in high demand due to the growing understanding of their therapeutic benefits.

Schering's work was characterized by his innovative approach to the development of pharmaceuticals. He was among the first to introduce standardized chemical processes in the production of drugs, ensuring consistent quality and efficacy. His contributions to the field include the development of new methods for synthesizing medicinal compounds, which paved the way for the modern pharmaceutical industry.

Under his leadership, Schering AG expanded rapidly, becoming one of the leading pharmaceutical companies of the time. The company was instrumental in introducing several important medicinal products, including the first widely used antipyretic and the development of early forms of hormonal therapies.

Legacy

Ernst Schering's legacy in the pharmaceutical industry is profound. His vision and innovations laid the groundwork for the modern pharmaceutical industry, emphasizing the importance of chemical research in medicine. Schering AG, now part of Bayer AG following a merger in 2006, continues to be a leading company in the field, upholding the standards of excellence and innovation set by its founder.

Schering's contributions have been recognized through various honors and memorials, including the establishment of the Ernst Schering Foundation, which supports scientific research in the natural sciences, life sciences, and medicine.

See Also

• History of pharmacy
• Pharmaceutical industry
• Bayer AG