Chemistry is one of the key branches of science that has a role in connecting the physical sciences with life sciences. It is a broad discipline that involves the study of structure, composition and properties of matter.
Looking at the vast field of this discipline, it only makes sense that there are numerous other sub-branches that focus on specific aspects of the material world respectively. One of them is pharmaceutical chemistry.
While both fields share a common foundation, they couldn’t be more different, especially in terms of scope, objectives and application areas. Let’s dive into the key differences between the two – chemistry and pharmaceutical chemistry.
What is Chemistry?
Chemistry is the study of matter that includes its composition, structure, characteristics and the behaviour/changes it shows under chemical reactions. It is the discipline that lays the foundation for understanding the development blocks of nature. Right from the smallest atoms to intricate compounds.
Key areas of chemistry are —
Organic Chemistry: The main focus here is on carbon-containing compounds.
Inorganic Chemistry: This one involves non-carbonic compounds like minerals and metals.
Physical Chemistry: It includes both physics and chemistry for studying the behavioural nature of matter.
Analytical Chemistry: The primary focus in this area of study is in identifying and quantifying chemical substances.
Biochemistry: It is the exploration of chemical processes within living organisms.
Application Areas of Chemistry
For the manufacturing of materials like plastics, metals, textiles and more.
To develop agricultural based products that includes fertilisers, insecticides, etc.
Advancing energy storage through batteries and fuel cells.
Creating household products like detergents, paints, and cosmetics.
In essence, the chemistry subject serves the purpose of being a basis for many industries and scientific innovations.
What is Pharmaceutical Chemistry?
Unlike chemistry, which in itself is a broad discipline, pharma chemistry comes under the vast area of study of chemistry. It is a specialised area that mainly involves finding, developing and quality controlling the drugs and medications.
It is a field that fills the gap between chemical research and medical applications. This study area is solely responsible for ensuring that the compounds developed are not just effective but are deemed safe for human use.
Key areas that are involved in pharma chemistry are —
Drug Design and Discovery: This involves identification of compounds that have therapeutic potential.
Medicinal Chemistry: It is the area where chemical structures are modified to boost the effectiveness and cut down side effects.
Pharmacokinetics: Studying how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolised and excreted in the body.
Pharmacodynamics: Understanding how drugs interact with biological systems to produce therapeutic effects.
Quality Control: It is to ensure the drugs developed have met stringent standards of safety and efficacy.
Application Areas of Pharmaceutical Chemistry
For the development of antibiotics, vaccines and antiviral drugs.
Discovery of cancer therapies and other life-saving treatments.
Formulating over-the-counter medications and supplements.
Research into drug delivery systems, such as tablets, injections, and patches.
Pharma chemistry directly impacts human health by driving innovations in medicine and improving the quality of life.
End Thoughts
So to say that chemistry vs pharmaceutical chemistry is not entirely true since despite their differences, the two fields are interconnected. Where chemistry serves as a broader field of study, pharm chemistry falls right under it.
Comments
Post a Comment