Program Summary
                                        
Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry is a branch of chemistry that focuses on the design, development, and synthesis of bioactive compounds for therapeutic use. It combines principles from organic chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology, and molecular biology to understand drug action at the molecular level. The course covers the discovery and optimization of new drugs, emphasizing the structure-activity relationship (SAR), drug-receptor interactions, and mechanisms of action. It explores the physicochemical properties of drugs and their impact on absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). Additionally, the course includes drug formulation, quality control, and regulatory aspects to ensure safety and efficacy. Students learn about various drug classes, their chemical structures, and modifications to improve potency and reduce side effects. Computational chemistry and drug design techniques such as molecular docking and QSAR (Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship) are also integral parts of the curriculum. Practical applications include laboratory synthesis, purification, and characterization of pharmaceutical compounds. The course prepares students for careers in the pharmaceutical industry, research institutions, regulatory agencies, and academia, equipping them with skills in drug design, synthesis, and evaluation.