Laboratory Formulary Analysis

Formulary is defined as 'a list of prescription drugs approved for use.' Drug analysis labs test real, counterfeit and approved drugs. They analyze prescription drugs from hospitals, pharmacies and manufacturers to detect substitution, illegal use of drugs and poisoning. They often analyze illegal substances like marijuana, alcohol and over-the-counter-drugs.

Pre-Marketing Control

• The labs perform drug analysis needed for drug registration before the drugs are marketed. Prescription drugs are tested for safety and quality. The drug is tested for toxicity, and its ingredients are tested for purity. The prescribed dosage is also established while testing the drugs, as well as the information about possible interference with other drugs.

Post-Marketing Control

• Drugs have to be scrupulously controlled after they have been released into the market. Samples from pharmacies, hospitals and manufacturers are tested for possible abuse, dilution and purity of ingredients. Sometimes even a small change in dosage or ingredient can cause an increased drug sensitivity or even be toxic to a client.

Quality Control

• Every country has their own government sponsored or independent labs that test drugs. Most labs perform physiochemical testing to learn things about drug dissolution process, drug stability and decomposition, and physiochemical drug interactions and incompatibility. Substandard or poor quality drugs create a global problem, but are especially visible in developing countries.