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Full Syllabus

Exam Syllabus — Unit by Unit

Everything TNMRB, RRB, and Drug Inspector test you on — in the exact order they test it, with every sub-topic as a bullet point. For exam pattern, eligibility and marks distribution, see Exam Details.

🏥 TNMRB Pharmacist 🚆 RRB Pharmacist 🔬 TNPSC Drug Inspector 🎓 GPAT

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TNMRB Pharmacist — Syllabus

Full unit-wise syllabus. Each topic below lists its sub-topics as bullet points.

← Exam Pattern & Eligibility

1. Pharmaceutics▾

History of the profession of Pharmacy in India in relation to Pharmacy education, industry, pharmacy practice and various professional associations. Pharmacy as a career. Pharmacopoeia — Introduction to IP, BP, USP, NF and Extra Pharmacopoeia; salient features of Indian Pharmacopoeia.
Packaging materials — types, selection criteria, advantages and disadvantages of glass, plastic, metal, rubber. Pharmaceutical aids — organoleptic (colouring, flavouring, sweetening) agents. Preservatives — definition, types, examples and uses.
Unit operations — definition, objectives/applications, principles, construction and working: size reduction (hammer mill, ball mill); size separation (IP powder classification, cyclone separator, sieves and standards of sieves); mixing (double cone blender, turbine mixer, triple roller mill, Silverson mixer homogenizer); filtration (theory, membrane filter, sintered glass filter); drying (fluidized bed dryer, freeze drying); extraction — definition, classification, methods and applications.
Dosage forms — tablets (coated and uncoated, sustained/extended-release, fast dissolving, multi-layered); capsules (hard and soft gelatin); liquid oral preparations (solution, syrup, elixir, emulsion, suspension, dry powder for reconstitution); topical preparations (ointments, creams, pastes, gels, liniments, lotions, suppositories, pessaries); nasal and ear preparations; powders and granules (insufflations, dusting powders, effervescent powders/granules); sterile formulations (injectables, eye drops, eye ointments); immunological products (sera, vaccines, toxoids and their manufacturing methods).
Basic structure, layout, sections and activities of pharmaceutical manufacturing plants. Quality control and quality assurance — definitions and concepts, cGMP. Introduction to calibration and validation. Novel drug delivery systems — introduction, classification with examples, advantages and challenges.

2. Pharmaceutical Chemistry▾

Introduction to pharmaceutical chemistry — scope and objectives. Sources and types of errors — accuracy, precision, significant figures. Impurities in pharmaceuticals — source and effect of impurities in Pharmacopoeial substances, importance of limit tests, principle and procedures of limit tests for chlorides, sulphates, iron, heavy metals and arsenic.
Volumetric analysis — fundamentals, acid-base titration, non-aqueous titration, precipitation titration, complexometric titration, redox titration. Gravimetric analysis — principle and method.
Inorganic pharmaceuticals — formulations, market preparations, storage conditions and uses of: haematinics (ferrous sulphate, ferrous fumarate, ferric ammonium citrate, ferrous ascorbate, carbonyl iron); GI agents — antacids (aluminium hydroxide gel, magnesium hydroxide, magaldrate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate), acidifying agents, adsorbents, protectives, cathartics; topical agents (silver nitrate, ionic silver, chlorhexidine gluconate, hydrogen peroxide, boric acid, bleaching powder, potassium permanganate); dental products (calcium carbonate, sodium fluoride, denture cleaners/adhesives, mouth washes); medicinal gases (carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, oxygen).
Introduction to nomenclature of organic chemical systems, with heterocyclic compounds up to three rings. Medicinal chemistry by drug class — classification, chemical name, chemical structure, uses, stability, storage and popular brand names for: CNS drugs (anaesthetics — thiopental sodium, ketamine, propofol; sedatives/hypnotics — diazepam, alprazolam, nitrazepam, phenobarbital; antipsychotics — chlorpromazine, haloperidol, risperidone, sulpiride, olanzapine, quetiapine, lurasidone; anticonvulsants — phenytoin, carbamazepine, clonazepam, valproic acid, gabapentin, topiramate, vigabatrin, lamotrigine; antidepressants — amitriptyline, imipramine, fluoxetine, venlafaxine, duloxetine, sertraline, citalopram, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, paroxetine); ANS drugs (sympathomimetics, adrenergic antagonists, cholinergic drugs and blocking agents); cardiovascular drugs (anti-arrhythmics, antihypertensives, antianginals, diuretics, hypoglycemic agents); analgesics/NSAIDs (aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, piroxicam, celecoxib, mefenamic acid, paracetamol, aceclofenac); anti-infectives (antifungals, urinary anti-infectives, anti-tubercular agents, antivirals, antimalarials, sulfonamides, antibiotics, tetracyclines, macrolides); anti-neoplastic agents (cyclophosphamide, busulfan, mercaptopurine, fluorouracil, methotrexate, dactinomycin, doxorubicin, vinblastine, cisplatin, dromostanolone propionate).

3. Pharmacognosy▾

Definition, history, present status and scope of Pharmacognosy. Classification of drugs — alphabetical, taxonomical, morphological, pharmacological, chemical, chemo-taxonomical. Quality control of crude drugs — methods of adulteration and evaluation. Occurrence, distribution, isolation, identification tests, therapeutic activity and pharmaceutical applications of alkaloids, terpenoids, glycosides, volatile oils, tannins and resins.
Biological source, chemical constituents and therapeutic efficacy of crude drugs by category: laxatives (Aloe, Castor oil, Ispaghula, Senna); cardiotonics (Digitalis, Arjuna); carminatives/GI regulators (Coriander, Fennel, Cardamom, Ginger, Clove, Black Pepper, Asafoetida, Nutmeg, Cinnamon); astringents (Myrobalan, Black/Pale Catechu); drugs acting on the nervous system (Hyoscyamus, Belladonna, Ephedra, Opium, Tea leaves, Coffee seeds, Coca); antihypertensive (Rauwolfia); antitussives (Vasaka, Tolu Balsam); antirheumatics (Colchicum seed); antitumour (Vinca, Podophyllum); antidiabetics (Pterocarpus, Gymnema); diuretics (Gokhru, Punarnava); antidysenteric (Ipecacuanha); antiseptics/disinfectants (Benzoin, Myrrh, Neem, Turmeric); antimalarial (Cinchona, Artemisia); oxytocic (Ergot); vitamins (Cod liver oil, Shark liver oil); enzymes (Papaya, Diastase, Pancreatin, Yeast); pharmaceutical aids (Kaolin, Lanolin, Beeswax, Acacia, Tragacanth, Sodium alginate, Agar, Guar gum, Gelatin); miscellaneous (Squill, Galls, Ashwagandha, Tulsi, Guggul).
Plant fibres used as surgical dressings — cotton, silk, wool, regenerated fibres; sutures — surgical catgut and ligatures. Traditional systems of medicine — Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Homeopathy; preparation of Ayurvedic formulations (Arista, Asava, Gutika, Taila, Churna, Lehya, Bhasma). Role of medicinal/aromatic plants in national economy and export potential. Herbs as health food — nutraceuticals, antioxidants, pro-biotics, prebiotics, dietary fibres, omega-3-fatty acids, Spirulina, carotenoids, soya, garlic. Herbal cosmetics — Aloe vera gel, Almond oil, Lavender oil, Olive oil, Rosemary oil, Sandal Wood oil. Phytochemical investigation of drugs.

4. Human Anatomy & Physiology▾

Scope of Anatomy and Physiology; definitions of terminologies. Structure of the cell — components and functions. Tissues — epithelial, connective, muscular, nervous (sub-types and characteristics). Osseous system — structure and functions of axial/appendicular skeleton bones; classification, types and movements of joints, joint disorders.
Haemopoietic system — composition and functions of blood, hemopoiesis, RBCs/WBCs/platelets, blood clotting, blood groups. Lymphatic system — lymph, spleen and lymph node structure/function. Cardiovascular system — heart anatomy/physiology, pulmonary/coronary/systemic circulation, cardiac cycle, heart sounds, ECG basics, blood pressure regulation.
Respiratory system — anatomy, regulation and mechanism of respiration, respiratory volumes and capacities. Digestive system — GIT anatomy/physiology, accessory glands, digestion and absorption. Skeletal muscles — histology, muscle contraction, disorders.
Nervous system — classification, cerebrum/cerebellum/mid brain, hypothalamus, medulla oblongata, basal ganglia, spinal cord structure and reflexes, cranial nerves, sympathetic and parasympathetic (ANS) anatomy/physiology. Sense organs — eye, ear, skin, tongue, nose. Urinary system — anatomy/physiology, urine formation, renin-angiotensin system, clearance tests, micturition. Endocrine system — pituitary, adrenal, thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, gonads (hormones and functions). Reproductive system — male/female anatomy, menstruation physiology, spermatogenesis, oogenesis, pregnancy and parturition.

5. Social Pharmacy▾

Introduction to Social Pharmacy — definition, scope, role of pharmacists in public health. Concept of Health — WHO definition, dimensions, determinants, health indicators. National Health Policy; public/private health systems; National Health Mission; Millennium Development Goals, Sustainable Development Goals, FIP Development Goals.
Preventive healthcare — demography and family planning, mother and child health, breastfeeding, infant milk substitutes; vaccines, types of immunity and immunization. Environment and health — water pollution, safe drinking water, waterborne diseases, air/noise pollution, solid waste disposal, occupational illnesses, environmental pollution due to pharmaceuticals.
Psychosocial pharmacy — drugs of misuse and abuse (psychotropics, narcotics, alcohol, tobacco), social impact on health/productivity/suicidal behaviours. Nutrition and health — macro/micronutrients, water and fibre, balanced diet, malnutrition, deficiency diseases, junk foods, food fortification; food safety, adulteration, artificial ripening, pesticides, GM foods; dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, drug-food interactions.
Introduction to microbiology and common microorganisms. Epidemiology — epidemic, pandemic, endemic, mode of transmission, outbreak, quarantine, isolation, incubation period, contact tracing, morbidity, mortality; role of pharmacists in prevention of communicable diseases — respiratory infections (chickenpox, measles, mumps, influenza incl. Avian-Flu/H1N1/SARS/MERS/COVID-19, diphtheria, whooping cough, meningococcal meningitis, TB, Ebola); intestinal infections (poliomyelitis, viral hepatitis, cholera, typhoid, amebiasis, worm infestations, food poisoning); arthropod-borne infections (dengue, malaria, filariasis, chikungunya); surface infections (trachoma, tetanus, leprosy); STDs, HIV/AIDS. National Health programs and pharmacist's role. Pharmacoeconomics — introduction, basic terminologies, importance.

6. Pharmacology▾

General Pharmacology — introduction and scope, routes of drug administration, drug absorption, bioavailability, drug distribution, biotransformation, excretion, general mechanisms of drug action and factors modifying it.
Drugs acting on the Peripheral Nervous System — cholinergic, anti-cholinergic, adrenergic, anti-adrenergic drugs, neuromuscular blocking agents, drugs used in myasthenia gravis, local anaesthetics, NSAIDs. Drugs acting on the Eye — miotics, mydriatics, glaucoma drugs. Drugs acting on the CNS — general anaesthetics, hypnotics/sedatives, anticonvulsants, anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, antipsychotics, nootropic agents, centrally acting muscle relaxants, opioid analgesics.
Drugs acting on the Cardiovascular System — antihypertensives, antianginals, antiarrhythmics, drugs for atherosclerosis, CHF and shock therapy. Drugs acting on Blood and Blood Forming Organs — haematinic agents, anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, thrombolytics. Bronchodilators, expectorants, antitussive agents, mucolytic agents. Drugs acting on the GIT — anti-ulcer drugs, antiemetics, laxatives/purgatives, anti-diarrhoeal drugs. Drugs acting on the Kidney — diuretics and anti-diuretics.
Hormones and hormone antagonists — thyroid hormones, anti-thyroid drugs, parathormone, calcitonin, vitamin D, insulin, oral hypoglycemic agents, estrogen, progesterone, oxytocin, corticosteroids. Autacoids — histamine, 5-HT, prostaglandins, antihistamines, 5-HT antagonists. Chemotherapeutic agents — penicillins, cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, tetracyclines, sulphonamides, anti-tubercular/antifungal/antiviral/anti-amoebic drugs, anthelmintics, antimalarial agents, anti-neoplastic agents. Biologicals — definition, types, indications with examples.

7. Community Pharmacy & Management▾

Community Pharmacy Practice — definition, history and development (international and Indian scenarios). Professional responsibilities of community pharmacists. Good Pharmacy Practice and SOPs. Prescription and prescription handling — definition, parts, legality, labelling (main label, ancillary label, pictograms), medication usage instructions. Dispensing process, Good Dispensing Practices, dispensing errors and minimization strategies.
Communication skills — types, verbal (one-to-one, telephone), written, body language, patient interview techniques. Patient counselling — definition, benefits, stages (introduction, content, process, closing), barriers and strategies; counselling points for chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, asthma, TB, COPD, AIDS). Patient Package Inserts and Patient Information Leaflets. Medication Adherence — definition, factors influencing non-adherence, strategies to overcome.
Health Screening Services — scope and importance for routine monitoring, early detection, referral. OTC Medications — definition, role of pharmacists, OTC medications in India, counselling, self-medication and safe practices; responding to symptoms and minor ailments (pain, cough, cold, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, fever, sore throat, skin disorders, oral health).
Community Pharmacy Management — legal requirements to set up a pharmacy, site selection, pharmacy design and interiors, vendor selection, procurement and inventory control, financial planning, accountancy (day book, cash book), pharmacy operation software, CRM, audits, SOP of pharmacy management. Introduction to Digital Health, mHealth and Online pharmacies.

8. Biochemistry & Clinical Pathology▾

Introduction to biochemistry — scope in pharmacy, cell and biochemical organization. Carbohydrates — definition, classification, chemical properties; monosaccharides (glucose, fructose, galactose), disaccharides (maltose, lactose, sucrose), polysaccharides (starch, glycogen); qualitative tests and biological role.
Proteins — classification by composition/solubility; amino acid classification; four levels of protein structure; qualitative tests; diseases of protein malnutrition. Lipids — classification, triglyceride structure/properties, fatty acid classification, cholesterol structure/functions, lipoproteins, qualitative tests. Nucleic acids — purine/pyrimidine bases, nucleosides/nucleotides, DNA (Watson & Crick model), RNA and functions.
Enzymes — definition, properties, IUB/MB classification, factors affecting activity, mechanism of action, inhibitors, therapeutic/pharmaceutical importance. Vitamins — classification, sources, functions, coenzyme forms, dietary requirements, deficiency diseases (fat and water soluble).
Metabolism (cycle/pathway level) — carbohydrate metabolism (glycolysis, TCA cycle, glycogen metabolism, blood glucose regulation) and related diseases; lipid metabolism (lipolysis, β-oxidation, ketogenesis/ketolysis) and related diseases (ketoacidosis, fatty liver, hypercholesterolemia); amino acid metabolism (transamination, deamination, urea cycle, decarboxylation) and related disorders (ammonia metabolism disorders, phenylketonuria, alkaptonuria, jaundice); biological oxidation — electron transport chain, oxidative phosphorylation.
Minerals — types, functions, deficiency diseases, dietary requirements. Water and electrolytes — distribution, turnover/balance, dehydration, oral rehydration therapy. Introduction to Biotechnology. Organ function tests — kidney, liver, lipid profile and their clinical significance. Pathology of blood and urine — lymphocytes, platelets, abnormal erythrocytes, abnormal urine constituents.

9. Pharmacotherapeutics▾

Introduction, scope and objectives. Rational Use of Medicines, Evidence Based Medicine, Essential Medicines List, Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs). Definition, etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, non-pharmacological and pharmacological management of diseases across: (a) Cardiovascular System — Hypertension, Angina and Myocardial Infarction, Hyperlipidemia, Congestive Heart Failure; (b) Respiratory System — Asthma, COPD; (c) Endocrine System — Diabetes, Hypo/Hyperthyroidism; (d) Central Nervous System — Epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Stroke, Migraine; (e) Gastro Intestinal Disorders — GERD, Peptic Ulcer Disease, Alcoholic liver disease, IBD (Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis); (f) Haematological disorders — Iron deficiency anaemia, Megaloblastic anaemia; (g) Infectious diseases — Tuberculosis, Pneumonia, UTIs, Hepatitis, Gonorrhoea and Syphilis, Malaria, HIV and Opportunistic infections, Viral Infections (SARS, CoV2); (h) Musculoskeletal disorders — Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis; (i) Dermatology — Psoriasis, Scabies, Eczema; (j) Psychiatric Disorders — Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis; (k) Ophthalmology — Conjunctivitis (bacterial and viral), Glaucoma; (l) Anti-microbial Resistance; (m) Women's Health — Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Syndrome.

10. Hospital & Clinical Pharmacy▾

Hospital Pharmacy — definition, scope, national/international scenario, organisational structure, professional responsibilities, qualification requirements. Good Pharmacy Practice in hospitals; Hospital Pharmacy Standards (FIP Basel Statements, AHSP); NAQS guidelines and NABH Accreditation. Hospital committees — Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee (objectives, composition, functions); Hospital Formulary; Infection Control Committee and antimicrobial resistance prevention.
Supply Chain and Inventory Control — drug lists (High Risk, Emergency, Schedule H1, NDPS, reserved antibiotics); drug purchase procedures (short/long term, tender/e-tender); inventory control techniques (EOQ, Reorder Quantity Level, Inventory Turnover); Central Drug Store management — storage conditions, cold chain, FEFO/FIFO, expiry handling, narcotics/cytotoxic drug disposal.
Drug distribution — individual prescription order method, Floor Stock Method, Unit Dose Drug Distribution Method, Drug Basket Method; distribution to ICCU/ICU/NICU/Emergency wards; automated dispensing systems; narcotic/psychotropic storage. Compounding in hospitals — bulk compounding, IV admixture, Total Parenteral Nutrition. Radio Pharmaceuticals — storage, dispensing, disposal. Computer applications in hospital pharmacy — EHRs, hospital pharmacy software.
Clinical Pharmacy — definition, scope, development in India and other countries; terminologies (Paediatrics, Geriatric, Ante-natal Care, Post-natal Care). Daily activities of clinical pharmacists — ward round participation, treatment chart review, ADR monitoring, drug/poisons information, medication history, patient counselling, inter-professional collaboration. Pharmaceutical care — classification of drug related problems, Medication Therapy Management, Home Medication Review. Clinical laboratory tests — haematological, liver function, renal function, thyroid function, cardiac, fluid/electrolyte balance, pulmonary function tests. Poisoning — types, clinical manifestations, antidotes; Drugs and Poison Information Centre services. Pharmacovigilance — definition, aim, scope. Medication errors — definition, types, LASA drugs and Tallman lettering (ISMP). Drug Interactions — definition, types, clinical significance.

11. Pharmacy Law & Ethics▾

General Principles of Law, history of Acts related to Drugs and Pharmacy profession. Pharmacy Act 1948 and Rules — objectives, definitions, Pharmacy Council of India (constitution and functions), Education Regulations, state/joint state pharmacy councils, registration, offences and penalties. Pharmacy Practice Regulations 2015.
Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 and Rules 1945 (with amendments) — objectives, definitions, legal definitions of schedules; import of drugs (prohibited classes, licenses/permits); manufacture of drugs (prohibitions, licensing conditions, test/examination/analysis manufacture, new drug manufacture, loan license, repacking license); study of Schedules C and C1, G, H, H1, K, P, M, N and X; sale of drugs (wholesale, retail, restricted license, records); drugs prohibited for manufacture and sale; administration of the Act (Drugs Technical Advisory Board, Central Drugs Laboratory, Drugs Consultative Committee, Government analysts, licensing/controlling authorities, Drug Inspectors).
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act 1985 and Rules — objectives, definitions, authorities, prohibition, control, regulation, offences and penalties. Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act 1954 — objectives, prohibited/exempted advertisements, offences and penalties. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960 — CPCSEA overview, Institutional Animal Ethics Committee. Poisons Act 1919. FSSAI Act and Rules — manufacture, storage, sale and labelling of food supplements.
National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority — DPCO 2013 (sale prices, retail/ceiling prices, Pharmaceutical Policy 2002, NLEM). Code of Pharmaceutical Ethics — ethical principles, problem solving, Pharmacist's oath. Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. Government pharma regulator bodies — CDSCO, IPC. Good Regulatory Practices (documentation, licenses, renewals, e-governance) across community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, manufacturing, wholesale, inspections, import/export. Introduction to BCS classification, Clinical Trials, ANDA, NDA, New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules 2019. Brand vs Generic, Patent Law and IPR, Emergency Use Authorization. Blood bank basics. Clinical Establishment Act. Biomedical Waste Management Rules 2016. Bioethics and ICMR's National Ethical Guidelines. Introduction to Consumer Protection Act, Disaster Management Act, and Medical Devices categorization/manufacture/sale.

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RRB Pharmacist — Syllabus

Full unit-wise syllabus. Each topic below lists its sub-topics as bullet points.

← Exam Pattern & Eligibility

1. Pharmacology & Toxicology20 Qs — Highest Weightage▾

Introduction and scope of Pharmacology; routes of administration of drugs (advantages/disadvantages); absorption, metabolism, distribution and excretion of drugs; general mechanism of drug action and modifying factors; pharmacological classification of drugs.
CNS: General anaesthetics (adjuncts to anaesthesia, intravenous anaesthetics); analgesic antipyretics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; narcotic analgesics; antirheumatic and anti-gout remedies; sedatives and hypnotics; psychopharmacological agents; anticonvulsants, analeptics; centrally acting muscle relaxants and anti-Parkinsonism agents; local anaesthetics.
ANS: Cholinergic, anticholinergic, anticholinesterase drugs; adrenergic drugs and adrenergic receptor blockers; neurone and ganglion blockers; neuromuscular blockers used in myasthenia gravis.
Eye: Mydriatics; drugs used in glaucoma. Respiratory: Respiratory stimulants, bronchodilators, nasal decongestants, expectorants, antitussive agents. Autocoids: Physiological role of histamine and serotonin; histamine and antihistamines; prostaglandins.
Cardiovascular: Cardiotonics, antiarrhythmic agents, anti-anginal agents, antihypertensive agents, peripheral vasodilators, drugs used in atherosclerosis. Blood: Haematinics, coagulants and anticoagulants, haemostatics, blood substitutes and plasma expanders. Renal: Diuretics and anti-diuretics.
Hormones: Hypoglycemic agents, anti-thyroid drugs, sex hormones and oral contraceptives, corticosteroids. GIT: Carminatives, digestants, bitters, antacids and peptic ulcer drugs, purgatives and laxatives, anti-diarrhoeals, emetics, anti-emetics, antispasmodics.
Chemotherapy: Urinary antiseptics, sulphonamides, penicillin, streptomycin, tetracyclines and other antibiotics; anti-tubercular, antifungal, antiviral, anti-leprotic drugs; chemotherapy of protozoal diseases; anthelmintic drugs; chemotherapy of cancer.
Clinical Pharmacy & Pathophysiology: Patient counselling and medication history; disease manifestation for Tuberculosis, Hepatitis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Cardiovascular diseases, Epilepsy, Diabetes, Peptic Ulcer, Hypertension. Drug interactions — mechanism, drug-drug (analgesics, diuretics, cardiovascular, GI, vitamins, hypoglycemics), drug-food interaction. Adverse Drug Reactions — significance, drug-induced diseases, teratogenicity. Clinical toxicity — general treatment of poisoning, systemic antidotes, insecticide/heavy metal/narcotic/barbiturate/organophosphorus poisoning. Drug dependence, drug abuse, addictive drugs. Bioavailability and factors affecting it. Experimental Pharmacology — drug discovery and development.

2. Pharmaceutics17 Qs▾

Introduction of dosage forms — classification with examples, new drug delivery systems, Pharmacopoeias (Indian Pharmacopoeia). Metrology — weights/measures, unit conversion, percentage calculations, allegation method, isotonic solutions. Packaging — desirable container features, glass/plastic materials, rubber closures, aerosol packaging.
Size reduction — objectives, factors, hammer mill, ball mill, fluid energy mill, disintegrator. Size separation — sifting, IP powder standards, sedimentation methods, cyclone separator construction/working. Mixing and homogenization — liquid/powder/semisolid mixing; Silverson mixer homogenizer, planetary mixer, agitated powder mixer, triple roller mill, propeller mixer, colloid mill, hand homogeniser, double cone mixer.
Clarification and filtration — theory, filter media/aids, filter press, sintered filters, filter candles, meta filter. Extraction and Galenicals — percolation, maceration, continuous hot extraction, tinctures and extracts. Heat processes — evaporation, evaporating still/pan. Distillation — simple, fractional, steam, vacuum distillation; purified water IP and water for injection IP.
Drying — tray dryers, fluidized bed dryer, vacuum dryer, freeze dryer. Sterilization — concept and difference from disinfection, thermal resistance of microorganisms; moist heat, dry heat, radiation, filtration and gaseous sterilization. Aseptic techniques — hospital applications for surgical dressings and IV fluids.
Tablet processing — compressed tablet types/properties, production processes, excipients, defects, evaluation, physical standards, disintegration/dissolution, coating (sugar, film, enteric, micro-encapsulation). Capsule processing — hard/soft gelatin capsules, sizes, filling, handling, storage. Immunological products — sera, vaccines, toxoids and their preparation.

3. Biochemistry & Clinical Pathology12 Qs▾

Introduction to biochemistry — chemistry and role of proteins, polypeptides, amino acids, classification, qualitative tests, biological value, deficiency diseases. Carbohydrates — chemistry, classification, qualitative tests, metabolism-related diseases. Protein — amino acid classification, protein structure, urea cycle, identification tests, metabolism disorders.
Lipids — chemistry, classification, qualitative tests, metabolism-related diseases. Vitamins — chemistry, coenzymes; role of minerals and water in life processes. Enzymes — enzymatic action concept, factors affecting it. Therapeutics — pathology of blood and urine, lymphocytes and platelets in health/disease. Erythrocytes — abnormal cells and significance; abnormal urine constituents and significance in disease. Nucleic Acid — DNA, RNA, Central Dogma process.

4. Human Anatomy & PhysiologyCore▾

Scope of Anatomy and Physiology — anatomical terminology, structure of cell, mitochondria and microsomes. Elementary tissues — epithelial, muscular, connective, nervous. Skeletal System — structure/function, joint classification and disorders.
Cardiovascular System — blood composition and functions, blood groups, coagulation, disorders of blood, lymph glands, heart structure, arterial/venous system (names and positions of main arteries/veins), blood pressure recording, cardiovascular disorders. Respiratory system — parts and functions, physiology of respiration. Urinary System — parts, kidney structure/function, urine formation physiology, patho-physiology of renal disease and edema.
Muscular System — skeletal muscle structure, muscle contraction physiology, names/positions/attachments/functions of major muscles, neuromuscular junction physiology. Central Nervous System — parts, brain and reflex action, ANS anatomy/physiology. Sensory Organs — taste, smell, ear, eye, skin; physiology of pain. Digestive System — parts and functions, liver structure/function, digestion and absorption physiology. Endocrine System — glands and hormones — pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas. Reproductive system — physiology and anatomy.

5. Health Education & Community Pharmacy2 Qs▾

Concept of health — physical, mental, social, spiritual health; determinants and indicators of health; concept of disease, natural history of disease, disease agents, prevention concept. Nutrition and health — food classification, requirements, deficiency-induced diseases (proteins, vitamins, minerals) — treatment and prevention. Demography and family planning — demography cycle, fertility, contraceptive methods (behavioural, natural, chemical, mechanical, hormonal), population problem of India.
First aid — emergency treatment for shock, snake-bite, burns, poisoning, heart disease, fractures, resuscitation methods, minor surgery/dressings. Environment and health — water supply/pollution/purification, air/noise/light pollution, solid waste disposal, medical entomology, arthropod-borne diseases, rodent/animal-related diseases.
Fundamental principles of microbiology — microbe classification, isolation, staining techniques. Communicable diseases — causative agents, transmission, prevention: respiratory infections (chicken pox, measles, influenza, diphtheria, whooping cough, TB); intestinal infections (poliomyelitis, hepatitis, cholera, typhoid, food poisoning, hookworm); arthropod-borne infections (plague, malaria, filariasis); surface infections (rabies, trachoma, tetanus, leprosy); STDs (syphilis, gonorrhoea, AIDS). Non-communicable diseases — causative agents, prevention, care, control. Epidemiology — scope, methods, dynamics of disease transmission. Immunity and immunization — immunological products and dose schedules. Principles of disease control/prevention, hospital-acquired infection control, disinfection procedures (faeces, urine, sputum, room linen, dead bodies, instruments).

6. Pharmaceutical Jurisprudence8 Qs▾

Origin and nature of pharmaceutical legislation in India — scope and objectives; evolution of the "concept of pharmacy" in the health care system. Principles and significance of professional ethics — code of pharmaceutical ethics drafted by the Pharmacy Council of India.
Pharmacy Act 1948 — general study with reference to Education Regulations, working of state/central councils, constitution and functions of councils, registration procedures. The Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 — general study and Rules thereunder, definitions and salient features of retail/wholesale distribution, powers of Inspectors, sampling procedures, licensing formalities, facilities for running a pharmacy, schedules C, C1, F, G, J, H, P and X, labeling and storage conditions.
The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisement) Act 1954 — objectives, advertisements, magic remedies and objections, permitted advertisements. Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act 1985 — objectives, offences and punishment. Brief introduction to: latest Drugs (Price Control) Order in force; Medicinal and Toilet Preparations (Excise Duties) Act 1955; Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act 1971.

7. Pharmaceutical Chemistry5 Qs▾

Nomenclature of organic chemical systems, heterocyclic systems up to 3 rings. Chemistry of pharmaceutical organic compounds — nomenclature, chemical structure (for starred compounds), uses, physical/chemical properties, stability, storage, formulation types and popular brand names for: antiseptics and disinfectants (Proflavine, Benzalkonium chloride, Cetrimide, Phenol, Chloroxylenol, Formaldehyde, Hexachlorophene, Nitrofurantoin); sulfonamides (Sulfadiazine, Sulphaguanidine, Phthalylsulphathiazole, Sulphadimethoxine, Co-trimoxazole, Sulfacetamide); antileprotic drugs (Clofazimine, Thiambutosine, Dapsone, Solapsone); anti-tubercular drugs (Isoniazid, PAS, Streptomycin, Rifampicin, Ethambutol, Thiacetazone, Ethionamide, Cycloserine, Pyrazinamide); antiamoebic/anthelmintic drugs (Emetine, Metronidazole, Diloxanide furoate, Paromomycin, Piperazine, Mebendazole, D.E.C.); antibiotics (Penicillin, Ampicillin, Cloxacillin, Gentamicin, Neomycin, Erythromycin, Tetracycline, Cephalexin, Cephaloridine, Griseofulvin, Chloramphenicol); antifungal agents (Undecylenic acid, Tolnaftate, Nystatin, Amphotericin, Hamycin); antimalarial drugs (Chloroquine, Amodiaquine, Primaquine, Proguanil, Pyrimethamine, Quinine, Trimethoprim); tranquilizers and hypnotics (Chlorpromazine, Prochlorperazine, Trifluoperazine, Haloperidol, Chlordiazepoxide, Diazepam, Lorazepam, Meprobamate, Phenobarbitone, Nitrazepam, Glutethimide); general anaesthetics (Halothane, Cyclopropane, Diethyl ether, Thiopental sodium); antidepressants and analeptics (Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, Imipramine, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine, Theophylline, Caffeine); adrenergic drugs and antagonists (Adrenaline, Noradrenaline, Salbutamol, Terbutaline, Propranolol); cholinergic drugs and antagonists (Neostigmine, Pyridostigmine, Pilocarpine, Atropine, Hyoscine, Tropicamide); diuretic and cardiovascular drugs (Furosemide, Chlorothiazide, Mannitol, Glyceryl trinitrate, Alpha methyldopa, Quinidine); hypoglycemic agents (Insulin, Chlorpropamide, Tolbutamide, Glibenclamide, Metformin); coagulants/anticoagulants (Heparin, Warfarin sodium); local anaesthetics and antihistamines (Lignocaine, Procaine, Diphenhydramine, Chlorpheniramine); analgesics/antipyretics (Morphine, Pethidine, Codeine, Aspirin, Paracetamol, Pentazocine); NSAIDs (Indomethacin, Phenylbutazone, Ibuprofen); thyroxine/antithyroid drugs; diagnostic agents; steroidal drugs (Betamethasone, Cortisone, Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone, Testosterone, Estradiol, Nandrolone).

8. Pharmacognosy3 Qs▾

Definition, history and scope including indigenous systems of medicine. Systems of classification of drugs of natural origin. Adulteration and drug evaluation — significance of pharmacopoeial standards. Occurrence, distribution, isolation, identification tests, therapeutic effects and pharmaceutical application of alkaloids, terpenoids, glycosides, volatile oils, tannins, resins.
Crude drugs by category — laxatives (Aloes, Rhubarb, Castor oil, Ispaghula, Senna); cardiotonics (Digitalis, Arjuna); carminatives/GI regulators (Coriander, Fennel, Ajowan, Cardamom, Ginger, Black pepper, Asafoetida, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Clove); astringents (Catechu); nervous-system-acting drugs (Hyoscyamus, Belladonna, Aconite, Ashwagandha, Ephedra, Opium, Cannabis, Nux-vomica); antihypertensive (Rauwolfia); antitussives (Vasaka, Tolu balsam, Tulsi); antirheumatics (Guggal, Colchicum); antitumour (Vinca); antileprotics (Chaulmoogra oil); antidiabetics (Pterocarpus, Gymnema sylvestre); diuretics (Gokhru, Punarnava); antidysenterics (Ipecacuanha); antiseptics/disinfectants (Benzoin, Myrrh, Neem, Curcuma); antimalarials (Cinchona); oxytocics (Ergot); vitamins (Shark liver oil, Amla); enzymes (Papaya, Diastase, Yeast); perfumes/flavouring agents (Peppermint, Lemon, Orange, Lemongrass, Sandalwood oils); pharmaceutical aids (Honey, Arachis oil, Starch, Kaolin, Pectin, Olive oil, Lanolin, Beeswax, Acacia, Tragacanth, Sodium alginate, Agar, Guar gum, Gelatin); miscellaneous (Liquorice, Garlic, Picrorhiza, Dioscorea, Linseed, Shatavari, Shankhpushpi, Pyrethrum, Tobacco). Collection and preparation of crude drugs for market (Ergot, Opium, Rauwolfia, Digitalis, Senna). Fibres used in sutures/surgical dressings — cotton, silk, wool, regenerated fibres. Gross anatomical studies of Senna, Datura, Cinnamon, Cinchona, Fennel, Clove, Ginger, Nux-vomica, Ipecacuanha.

9. Drug Store & Business Management3 Qs▾

Introduction — trade, industry and commerce, functions and subdivision of commerce, elements of economics and management, forms of business organizations, channels of distribution. Drug House Management — site/space selection and legal requirements, purchasing objectives, supplier selection, credit information, tenders/contracts/price determination, codification, drug store handling; Inventory Control — objects and importance, ABC/VED analysis, lead time, inventory carrying cost, safety stock, minimum/maximum stock levels, economic order quantity, scrap and surplus disposal. Sales — promotion, market research, salesmanship, salesman qualities, advertising, window display. Recruitment — training, evaluation and compensation of the pharmacist. Banking and Finance — bank services and functions, finance planning and sources of finance.

10. Hospital PharmacyCore▾

Hospital — definition, function, classification criteria, organization, management and health delivery system in India. Hospital Pharmacy — definition, functions and objectives of hospital pharmaceutical services, location, layout, flow chart of materials and men, personnel/facility requirements, hospital pharmacist requirements and abilities.
Drug Distribution system in Hospitals — outpatient/inpatient services, unit dose system, floor ward stock system, satellite pharmacy services, central sterile services, bedside pharmacy. Manufacturing — economic considerations, demand estimation. Sterile manufacture — large/small volume parenterals, facilities, layout, production planning, manpower requirements. Non-sterile manufacture — liquid orals, externals, bulk concentrates, procurement and raw material testing; nomenclature and uses of surgical instruments and hospital equipment/health accessories.
Hospital Formulary system — organization, functioning, composition. Drug Information service and Drug Information Bulletin. Surgical dressings (cotton, gauze, bandages, adhesive tapes) and their pharmacopoeial quality tests. Other hospital supplies — IV sets, BG sets, Ryals tubes, catheters, syringes. Application of computers — records maintenance, inventory control, medication monitoring, drug information, data storage and retrieval in hospital/retail pharmacy establishments.

Non-Pharma Section30 Qs — combined▾

General Arithmetics (3 Qs): Number systems, BODMAS, decimals, fractions, LCM and HCF, ratio and proportion, percentages, mensuration, time and work, time and distance, simple and compound interest, profit and loss, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, elementary statistics, square root, age calculations, calendar and clock, pipes and cistern.
General Intelligence and Reasoning (7 Qs): Analogies, alphabetical and number series, coding and decoding, mathematical operations, relationships, syllogism, jumbling, Venn diagram, data interpretation and sufficiency, conclusions and decision making, similarities and differences, analytical reasoning, classification, directions, statement — arguments and assumptions.
General Awareness (11 Qs): Current affairs, Indian geography, culture and history of India including freedom struggle, Indian Polity and constitution, Indian Economy, environmental issues concerning India and the world, sports, general scientific and technological developments.
General Science (9 Qs): Physics, Chemistry and Life Sciences up to 10th standard CBSE syllabus.

🔬

TNPSC Drug Inspector — Syllabus

Full unit-wise syllabus. Each topic below lists its sub-topics as bullet points.

← Exam Pattern & Eligibility

Unit I — Pharmacy Foundations, Calculations & Pharmaceutics20 Qs▾

1) Historical background and development of profession of pharmacy: History of profession of Pharmacy in India in relation to pharmacy education, industry and organization, Pharmacy as a career, Pharmacopoeias: Introduction to IP, BP, USP and Extra Pharmacopoeia.
2) Calculations: Posology — Pediatric Dose calculations based on age, body weight and surface area. Pharmaceutical calculations — Percentage solutions, Alligation, Proof spirit and isotonic solutions based on freezing point and molecular weight.
3) Unit Operations: Size reduction, Size separation, Mixing, Filtration, Centrifugation, Evaporation, Drying, Distillation, Heat transfer, Tablet Compression and Tablet coating.
4) Coarse Dispersion: Suspension, interfacial properties of suspended particles, settling in suspensions, formulation of flocculated and deflocculated suspension. Emulsions and theories of emulsification, micro emulsion and multiple emulsion, stability of emulsions, preservation of emulsions, rheological properties of emulsions and emulsion formation by HLB method.
5) Pre-formulation studies: Introduction to pre-formulation, goals and objectives, study of physicochemical characteristics of drug substances — (a) Physical Properties: Crystal & amorphous form, particle size distribution and determination, shape, flow properties, derived properties, solubility profile (Pka, pH, Partition co-efficient), Polymorphism; (b) Chemical properties: Hydrolysis, Oxidation, reduction, racemisation, polymerisation. BCS classification of drugs and its significance. Application of preformulation considerations in the development of solid, liquid oral and parenteral dosage forms and its impact on stability of dosage forms.
6) Pharmaceutical Excipients — Used in Liquid, Semisolids and Solid dosage forms.
7) Quality Control Tests of the following formulations: Oral Solid dosage forms, Semi solids, Oral Liquid dosage forms, Parenteral, Ophthalmic preparation and Pharmaceutical Aerosols.
8) Cosmetics: Formulation and preparation of the following cosmetics preparations — Lipsticks, Shampoos, Cold Cream, Vanishing Cream, Tooth Paste, Hair Dyes, Sunscreens.
9) Packaging Material Sciences: Materials used for packaging of Pharmaceutical products, factors influencing choice of containers, legal and official requirement for containers, Quality control tests for containers and rubber closures.
10) Bioavailability and Bioequivalence: Definitions and objectives of Bioavailability, absolute and relative bioavailability, measurement of bioavailability, in-vitro drug dissolution models, in-vitro-in-vivo correlations, bioequivalence studies, methods to enhance dissolution rates and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs.

Unit II — Pharmacokinetics, Quality Systems & Industrial Pharmacy15 Qs▾

1) Pharmacokinetics: Definition and introduction of Pharmacokinetics, Compartment models, Non-compartment models, Physiological models, One compartment open model — (a) Intravenous Injection (bolus), (b) Intravenous infusion, (c) Extra vascular administrations. Pharmacokinetic parameters — Elimination rate constant (KE), Half life (t1/2), Volume of distribution (Vd), Area under curve (AUC), Absorption rate constant (Ka), Total body clearance (CLt) and Renal Clearance (CLR) — definitions, methods of elimination, understanding of their significance and application.
2) Good manufacturing practices (GMP)
3) Good Laboratory Practices (GLP): Organisation and personnel, Facilities, equipment, Testing facilities operation, Test and control articles, Protocol for conduct of a Nonclinical Laboratory Study, Records and reports, Disqualification of Testing facilities.
4) Warehousing: Good Warehousing practice, Materials Management.
5) Quality management systems: Quality management and certification — concept of quality, Total Quality Management, Quality by Design (QbD), Six Sigma concept, Out Of Specifications (OOS), Change control, Introduction to ISO 9000 series of quality system standards, ISO 14000, NABL.
6) Over the counter (OTC) Sales: Introduction and sale of over the counter and Rational use of common over the counter medications.
7) Drug Store Management and Inventory Control: Organisation of Drug Store, types of materials stocked and storage conditions. Purchase and inventory control — Principles, Purchase procedures, Purchase order, Procurement and stocking, Economic order quantity, Reorder quantity level and methods used for the analysis of the drug expenditure.
8) Novel Drug Delivery Systems: Ocular Drug Delivery Systems, Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems, Implantable Newer Drug Delivery Systems, Targeted Drug Delivery and Controlled Drug Delivery Systems.
9) Blood products and Plasma Substitutes: Collection, Processing and Storage of whole human blood, dried human plasma, plasma Substitutes.
10) Fermentation methods and general requirements, study of media, equipments, sterilization methods, aeration process, stirring. Large scale production fermenter design and its various controls. Study of the production of — Penicillins, Citric acid, Vitamin B12, Glutamic acid, Griseofulvin.

Unit III — General Microbiology & Immunology15 Qs▾

1. Morphology, classification and identification of Bacteria, Virus, Fungus & Parasite
2. Normal microbial flora & Bacterial genetics
3. Culture Media & Equipments in Microbiology Laboratory
4. Sterilization and disinfection
5. Testing of Sterilization & disinfection including sterility testing of pharmaceutical products
6. Bio Safety in Microbiology Laboratory
7. Cultivation of Bacteria
8. Structures, Cells and functions of Immune system
9. The complement system
10. Antigen-Antibody reactions
11. Hypersensitivity
12. Tumour Immunity & Immuno Haematology
13. Immuno Prophylaxis against infectious Diseases
14. Immunotherapy

Unit IV — Clinical & Applied Microbiology20 Qs▾

1. C.N.S infections
2. Respiratory Infections
3. Urinary Tract Infections
4. Gastro intestinal Infections
5. Genital Tract Infections
6. Congenital Infections
7. Infections of Eye, Ear & Skin
8. Infections of Cardio vascular System
9. Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (P.U.O)
10. Zoonotic Infections
11. Collection, Transport and Disposal of Specimens
12. Environmental Microbiology (Food, Water, Milk and Air)
13. Microbial Control — anti microbial susceptibility testing
14. Microbiological Assays for Standardisation of Antibiotics and Vitamins
15. Bio medical waste management
16. Emerging and re-emerging infections — Bio Terrorism
17. Advanced Molecular Techniques in Relation to Diagnosis of Infectious diseases & Basic molecular biology related to infections
18. Anti microbial resistance and antibiotic policy
19. Newer Vaccines
20. Quality Control, Audit and Accreditation of Standard Microbiology Laboratory

Unit V — Analytical Foundations15 Qs▾

1. Atomic structure and valency, Radioactivity, Radio isotopes and Pharmaceutical applications of Radio Pharmaceuticals, hazards and precautions.
2. Sources of impurities in Pharmaceutical substances: Limit test as per I.P; Fundamentals of volumetric Analysis. Errors: Sources, types, methods of minimizing errors, Accuracy, Precision, significant figures.
3. A systematic study of inorganic compounds for their preparation, assay and use which includes Gastrointestinal agents, Topical agents and Dental products.
4. Preparation and use of Chemical reagents and Volumetric Solutions as per Pharmacopeia in Pharmaceutical Analysis.

Unit VI — Instrumental & Advanced Analysis25 Qs — Highest in Sciences▾

1. Principles and Pharmacopoeial Assay Procedures involving Non-aqueous Titration, Redox, Diazotization, complexometric methods, electrometric titration, gravimetric analysis.
2. Chromatography — Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), Column, Paper, Gas Chromatography (GC), Ion exchange, High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), Gel electrophoresis.
3. Theory, principle, instrumentation and applications of colorimetry, UV-Visible Spectrophotometry, Spectrofluorimetry, Nepheloturbidometry, Infra-Red (IR), Mass, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Radio Immuno Assay (RIA), Polarimetry, Refractometry, Thermal method of analysis — Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA), Atomic absorption spectroscopy.
4. ICH guidelines — Calibration and validation, calibration of electronic balance, UV spectrophotometer, IR spectrophotometer, Fluorimeter, High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gas Chromatography (GC), Flame photometer.

Unit VII — General Pharmacology, PNS/ANS/CNS & Cardiovascular20 Qs▾

1) General Pharmacology: Sources of drugs, Routes of drug administration, Dosage formulations, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics — Good Clinical Practice, Patient compliance and self medication, Placebo medicines and pharmacoeconomics. Discovery and development of drugs — Preclinical studies in animals, Clinical trials, Official regulatory guidelines. Orphan drugs, Pharmacovigilance — Pharmacogenetics, Adverse drug reactions and monitoring, Clinical importance of drug interactions (both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions with special reference to antimicrobials, NSAIDS and cardiovascular drugs).
2) Drugs Acting on Nervous System — Central Nervous System: General anaesthetics and Pre anaesthetic medication — Antiepileptics — Sedatives and Hypnotics — Alcohols and disulfiram — Psychopharmacological drugs (Anti-Psychotics, Anti-depressants, anti-anxiety agents, anti-manic and hallucinogens) — CNS Stimulants — Neurodegenerative disorders — De-addiction — Drugs of abuse, drug tolerance and drug dependence.
3) Peripheral Nervous System & Autonomic Nervous System: Neurohumoral transmission in Autonomic nervous system, Para Sympathomimetics, Parasympatholytics, Sympathomimetics, Sympatholytics, neuromuscular blocking agents, Skeletal muscle relaxants (peripheral), Local anaesthetic agents, Drugs used in Myasthenia gravis and glaucoma.
4) Cardiovascular Drugs: Drugs used in congestive heart failure, Anti-hypertensive drugs, Anti-Anginal Drugs, Anti-arrhythmic drugs, Hypolipidemic Drugs, Drugs used in the therapy of shock.
5) Drugs Acting on Hemopoeitic and Renal System: Haematinics — Coagulants & Anticoagulants — Fibrinolytics & Antifibrinolytics — Antiplatelets — Diuretics.

Unit VIII — GIT, Endocrine, Chemotherapy & Bio-Assay20 Qs▾

1) Drugs Acting on the Gastro Intestinal System: Anti-ulcer agents, Drugs for constipation and diarrhea, appetite stimulants and Suppressants, Digestants and carminatives, Emetics and anti-emetics.
2) Drugs Acting on Endocrine System: Anterior pituitary Hormones — Thyroid Hormones — Corticosteroids — Insulin & Oral Hypoglycemic drugs — Male & Female sex Hormones — Oral contraceptives — Uterine stimulants & relaxants.
3) Immunopharmacology & Autacoids: Cell and biochemical mediators involved in allergy, immuno-modulation and inflammation, hypersensitivity reactions — therapeutic agents for allergy, asthma and COPD — NSAIDs & DMARDs & gout — Antihistamines — Serotonin agonists & Antagonists.
4) Chemotherapy: General Principles of Chemotherapy, Sulfonamides and co-trimoxazole, Antibiotics: Penicillins, Cephalosporins, Chloramphenicol, macrolides, Quinolones and fluoroquinolones, tetracycline and aminoglycosides, Anti-tubercular agents, Anti-leprotic agents, Anti-fungal agents, Anti-viral drugs, Anthelmintics, Anti-malarial drugs, Anti-amoebic agents, Urinary tract infection and sexually transmitted diseases, Chemotherapy of malignancy.
5) Bio-Assay: Principles and applications of Bio-assay, types of bio-assay, bio-assay of insulin, oxytocin, Vasopressin, ACTH, d-tubocurarine, digitalis, histamine and 5HT.
6) Miscellaneous: Vaccines — Dermatological preparations — Chelating Agents.

Unit IX — Pharmacognosy20 Qs▾

1. Alphabetical, Morphological, Taxonomical, Chemical and Pharmacological classification of crude drugs.
2. Adulteration and evaluation of drugs of natural origin. WHO guidelines for the assessment of herbal drugs.
3. General introduction, composition, chemistry and chemical classification, general methods of extraction and analysis, bio-sources, therapeutic uses and commercial application of the following secondary metabolites — (a) Alkaloids: Vinca, Rauwolfia, Belladonna, Opium; (b) Steroids, Cardiac Glycosides and Triterpenoids: Liquorice, Dioscorea, Digitalis; (c) Glycosides: Senna, Aloes; (d) Tannins: Black & Pale catechu; (e) Volatile oils: Mentha, Clove, Cinnamon, Fennel, Coriander; (f) Resins: Benzoin, Ginger, Asafoetida, Colophony.
4. Isolation, Identification and Analysis of the following phytoconstituents — (i) Terpenoids: Menthol, Citral, Artemisin; (ii) Glycosides: Glycyrrhetenic acid, Rutin; (iii) Alkaloids: Atropine, Quinine, Reserpine, Caffeine; (iv) Resins: Podophyllotoxin, Curcumin.
5. Homeopathy: Introduction, Basic principles, Preparation and evaluation of Various Dosage forms of homeopathy system of medicine.
6. Marine Drugs: Novel Medicinal agents from marine sources.
7. Herbal Cosmetics: Sources and description of raw material of herbal origin used via fixed oils, waxes, gums, colours, perfumes, protective agents, bleaching agents, antioxidants in products such as skin care, hair care and oral hygiene products.

Unit X — Pharmacy Law & Regulatory Framework30 Qs — Highest Weightage▾

The single highest-weightage unit for a Drug Inspector role, covering the exact Acts an Inspector will enforce:
1. The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 (as amended from time to time)
2. The Drugs Rules, 1945 (as amended from time to time)
3. The Cosmetics Rules, 2020 (as amended from time to time)
4. The Medical Devices Rules, 2017 (as amended from time to time)
5. The New Drugs and Clinical Trials (NDCT) Rules, 2019 (as amended from time to time)
6. The Drugs (Price Control) Order, 2013 (as amended from time to time)
7. The Pharmacy Act, 1948 (as amended from time to time)
8. The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisement) Act, 1954 and Rules, 1955 (as amended from time to time)
9. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and Rules, 1985 (as amended from time to time)

🎓

GPAT — Syllabus

Full unit-wise syllabus. Each topic below lists its sub-topics as bullet points.

← Exam Pattern & Eligibility

Pharmaceutics & AlliedHighest weightage▾

Physical Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Engineering, Dosage Form Design, Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, Novel Drug Delivery Systems, Cosmetics, Dispensing & Hospital Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Microbiology & Biotechnology.

Pharmaceutical Chemistry & AlliedHigh weightage▾

Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Analysis (chromatography, spectroscopy, instrumental methods). Together with Pharmaceutics, over 60% of total GPAT weightage.

Pharmacology & Allied▾

Human Anatomy & Physiology, Pathophysiology, systems-wise Pharmacology, Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacotherapeutics — mechanism of drug action, receptors, ADME, clinical pharmacokinetics.

Pharmacognosy & Allied▾

Pharmacognosy & Phytochemistry, Herbal Drug Technology, Natural Product Chemistry — biological sources, chemical constituents, extraction & evaluation of crude drugs.

Other Subjects▾

Pharmaceutical Jurisprudence, Pharmaceutical Management, Biostatistics & Research Methodology, Social & Preventive Pharmacy, Computational Biology & Bioinformatics (recent addition).