Do you know pharmacists have also created non-pharmaceutical products?

When most people think of pharmacists, they envision a friendly face behind the counter, dispensing medications, offering advice on dosages, and ensuring safety in our medication regimens. However, pharmacist’s expertise extends far beyond pharmaceutical products. Many have applied their scientific skills to develop innovative, non-pharmaceutical products that benefit health and everyday life in surprising ways.

Let’s dive into some of the exciting ways in which pharmacists have contributed product development outside of the pharmaceutical space-from personal care products to sustainable health innovations.
Personal care products
To help produce high-quality personal care items including lotions, creams, and sunscreens, the knowledge about chemistry and biology of the pharmacists has been helpful. Pharmacists who are aware of skin physiology and the characteristics of various ingredients can formulate the product that matches some specific skin condition or type. Some lines of personal care products, especially those aimed at sensitive skin or dermatological conditions, may be designed with the hand of a pharmacist inputted into their lines. Examples include mineral makeup, anti-aging serums, and hypoallergenic products-styles that one can say have their roots in pharmacist-led research by providing options that are safer and more effective than most cosmetics available.
Herbal and natural products
With a climbing demand for natural or organic items, some pharmacists have shifted their focus to herbal and plant-based drugs. A pharmacist who is trained in phytochemistry, which is the study of chemicals found in plants, can be very potent in developing products such as herbal teas, essential oils, and wellness supplements rooted from botanical knowledge. Such products are often considered for a more holistic approach to health and are favoured by consumers with a preference for natural alternatives to synthesized chemicals.
Sporting and fitness products
Another significant contribution of a pharmacist in the sports and fitness industries is on electrolyte drinks, protein supplements, and other recovery aids that have been scientifically developed to meet the needs of athletes. Focusing on efficacy and on safety, pharmacists guarantee the result without adverse health effects, which may be a problem in less-regulated fitness supplements.
Hygiene and sanitation products
Quickly, these items-hand sanitizers, antibacterial soaps, and disinfectants-make their way into everyone’s lives, especially after this past global health crisis. Pharmacists became able to produce useful sanitizers that do not damage the skin, kill germs because of their crucial involvement in formulating effective products. Their understanding of microbiology and antiseptics is critical in developing products that help limit the spread of infection but yet are not a frequent risk to use.
Food and beverages innovation
A related field where pharmacists have made significant contributions is with nutritional supplements and fortified foods, particularly products to improve digestion, enhance immunity, or promote generally good health. Many pharmacists have gone on to produce a range of snacks and beverages that have enhanced health benefits through scientific know-how infused with culinary flair. Examples include probiotic nibbles, vitamin-rich drinks, and mineral and antioxidant-enriched foods.
Ecological and foodstuffs products
With increasing interest in sustainability, a few pharmacists have taken their knowledge to advance the development of eco-friendly and biodegradable products. From sustainable solutions for biodegradable packaging of healthcare items to plant-based disinfectants, pharmacists have been researching innovative products that reduce environmental impact without sacrificing health and safety standards.
Non-pharmaceutical products that have been created by pharmacists
Soft serve ice cream: In 1938, a Massachusetts-based pharmacist named J.F. “Grandpa” McCullough developed a new method for making soft-serve ice cream. His method involved adding air to the ice cream mixture, which made the ice cream smoother and creamier. McCullough’s invention quickly became popular, and soft-serve ice cream remains a favourite treat for many people today.
Artificial vanilla flavouring: The flavouring in vanilla extract comes from the vanilla bean, which is a rare and expensive commodity. In 1874, a pharmacist named John B. Curtis discovered a way to make a synthetic version of vanilla flavouring using a chemical called coumarin. This invention revolutionized the food industry, as it allowed manufacturers to make vanilla-flavoured products without using expensive vanilla beans.
Instant mashed potatoes: In the 1950s, a Canadian pharmacist named Edward Asselbergs invented a new method for making instant mashed potatoes. His method involved dehydrating mashed potatoes and adding preservatives to create a shelf-stable product that could be reconstituted with water. Asselbergs’ invention was a hit, and instant mashed potatoes quickly became a popular convenience food.
Cotton swabs: In 1923, a Polish-American pharmacist named Leo Gerstenzang invented a new type of cotton swab designed specifically for cleaning a baby’s ears. Gerstenzang was inspired to create the product after seeing his wife using a toothpick to clean their baby’s ears. He called the product “Baby Gays,” and it quickly became popular among parents.
Breath mints: In the 1940s, a Los Angeles pharmacist named James Howe invented a new type of breath mint called “Sen-Sen.” Howe’s invention contained a mixture of liquorice, sugar, and magnesium carbonate, which helped freshen breath and aid digestion. Sen-Sen quickly became popular, and many other brands of breath mints followed.
Non-pharmaceutical brands developed by pharmacists
Numerous famous companies were also started by pharmacists who recognized the prospect beyond running a typical drugstore. Some of those are:
• Kiehl’s: While originating as an apothecary in New York City and run by an immigrant pharmacist, Kiehl’s eventually matured to become an all-envied global skincare brand, all developed with science-backed products.
• Aveeno: Two brothers who were pharmacists invented it. Aveeno skincare is renowned for using oat-based ingredients because it “uses science and sensitivities to the health of the skin.”.
• Neutrogena: As based on the diagnosis and formulation put by pharmacy graduates, Neutrogena has gained popularity in products that support both beauty and skin.
Pharmacists have played an important role in the development of non-pharmaceutical products that have had a significant impact on society. A win in the non-pharmacy products can show better their skills and the intensity of pharmacist innovation. Pharmacist knowledge in chemistry, biology, and medicine is being applied to creating products as good for everyday life as they are to health and wellness.