Galenica

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Galenica refers to the branch of medical science that focuses on the preparation and dispensing of drugs. Named after the Greek physician Galen, this field is also known as pharmacy in modern terms.

History[edit | edit source]

The term Galenica originates from the name of the ancient Greek physician Galen, who made significant contributions to the field of medicine, including the preparation of medicinal compounds. His methods and theories formed the basis of pharmaceutical compounding for centuries.

Galenic Formulation[edit | edit source]

Galenic formulation refers to the process of preparing drug compounds to optimize their absorption within the body. This involves the careful selection and combination of different ingredients, including the active drug substance and various excipients. The goal is to create a final product that is both safe and effective for patient use.

Galenic Pharmacy[edit | edit source]

Galenic pharmacy is a specialized field that focuses on the preparation and dispensing of custom-made medications. These are often required when commercially available drugs do not meet the specific needs of a patient. For example, a patient may require a lower dosage than what is commercially available, or they may need a medication in a different form, such as a liquid instead of a pill.

Modern Relevance[edit | edit source]

While the term Galenica is not commonly used today, the principles and practices it represents are still very much a part of modern pharmacy. The preparation of custom medications, known as compounding, is a vital service provided by pharmacies worldwide. Furthermore, the principles of Galenic formulation are used in the development of new drugs and therapies.

File:Galen.jpg
Galen, the Greek physician after whom Galenica is named

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD