Department of Pharmacology

Dr Kulsoom Farhat

Head of Department

Message from the HOD

I welcome you to the Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Amy Medical College (National University of Medical Sciences) webpage. Our department is providing a comprehensive and consolidated knowledge of Pharmacology & Therapeutics enabling the rational use of medicines thereby fulfilling its purpose in accordance with the scientific knowledge and ethical considerations. Consistent with accreditation standards and guidelines of Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC), Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC), College of Physicians & Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) the curriculum provides an appropriate balance of course work and lab work to the undergraduate and post-graduate students alike. We aim at excellence in both teaching and research, by continuously applying innovative approaches towards imparting and enhancing this knowledge and integrating high impact research with multidisciplinary approach. Being engaged in innovative biomedical research, we have a breadth of research interests; a few to name are; Animal studies, clinical pharmacology, drug safety & toxicology; variability in drug responses, pharmacogenetics and pharmacokinetics.

As one of the most renowned Pharmacology department in Pakistan, our vision is to be the leaders and a key community resource in pharmacology education, research and training. We encourage you to explore the intersecting areas of education, clinical practice and research within our Department.

Dr Kulsoom Farhat

Head, Department of Pharmacology

Introduction

The Department of Pharmacology at Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, under the umbrella of the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and training in the field of pharmacology. Established with the vision of equipping future physicians with sound knowledge of drugs and their rational use, the department plays a vital role in bridging basic medical sciences with clinical practice.

Our primary focus is to develop in students a deep understanding of drug mechanisms, therapeutic applications, adverse effects, and principles of prescription safety. By integrating basic pharmacological concepts with problem-based and clinical scenarios, we prepare medical students to apply their knowledge effectively in patient care. Special emphasis is placed on promoting rational prescribing practices, drug safety, and pharmacovigilance, in alignment with international medical education standards.

The department offers an interactive and student-centered learning environment through lectures, small group discussions, tutorials, and hands-on workshops. Modern teaching strategies, including case-based learning and simulation, are employed to enhance student engagement and critical thinking. Assessment methods are carefully designed to evaluate both knowledge and application skills, ensuring students are well prepared for clinical responsibilities.

Research and innovation form an integral part of the department’s mandate. Faculty and students are actively engaged in research projects focusing on experimental pharmacology, drug safety, clinical trials, and medical education. The department also contributes to postgraduate training and capacity building in pharmacology, fostering future academicians, researchers, and clinical pharmacologists.

With a team of highly qualified faculty members and access to modern laboratories, the Department of Pharmacology continues to contribute significantly to the academic excellence and professional growth of Army Medical College. Our commitment remains to produce competent, ethical, and research-oriented medical professionals who can serve both nationally and internationally.

Outline of the Course

The undergraduate Pharmacology course is structured to provide comprehensive coverage of general, systemic, and clinical pharmacology. The curriculum emphasizes the principles of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, drug interactions, adverse effects, and prescription safety. Special attention is given to the development of rational prescribing habits and an evidence-based approach to therapeutics.

Teaching and learning methodologies are diverse and student-centered, incorporating lectures, small-group discussions, case-based learning, simulation exercises, prescription writing workshops, and integrated teaching sessions with clinical disciplines. Practical sessions and problem-based tutorials further strengthen the ability of students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world clinical contexts.

Assessment includes continuous evaluation through written tests, assignments, objective structured practical examinations (OSPE), and end-of-module summative examinations. This approach ensures that students are not only knowledgeable but also competent in applying pharmacological principles in clinical decision-making.

The course also nurtures professionalism, ethical responsibility, and lifelong learning attitudes among students, preparing them for future roles as safe prescribers, researchers, and leaders in healthcare. The department is actively engaged in research activities and encourages student participation in pharmacological research projects to cultivate critical thinking and scientific inquiry.

Through this curriculum, the Department of Pharmacology at Army Medical College aspires to produce medical graduates who can integrate pharmacological knowledge with clinical judgment to optimize patient care and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare system of Pakistan and beyond.