The Department of Pharmacology, established in January 2021, has quickly made its mark in the domain of medical education and research as a part of AIIMS Kalyani, an Institute of National Importance. The journey of the department and contributions are detailed below.

1. Academic Activities:

 The department has been actively engaged in imparting knowledge to various categories of students. This includes medical undergraduate students, nursing students, postgraduates, and those enrolled in the lab technician course. With an aim to make medical learning more intriguing and participative, the department regularly organizes quizzes, debates, and student seminars. These interactive sessions not only enhance the understanding of the subject but also foster critical thinking and communication skills among the students. The department also runs Mentor-Mentee Program to address students need of personalised guidance.

Summer Research Training Course For MBBS Students: As a new initiative, from 2024, department has started a special 2 weeks optional course on ‘Basic Biomedical Research Methodology, Data Collection & Analysis in Pharmacovigilance’ for willing MBBS students during their summer vacations.

Post doctoral certificate course (PDCC) in Pharmacovigilance:  The department has started this new 1 year certificate course with 1 seat per batch, starting July 2024.

2. Induction Training Course on “Rational Pharmacotherapy & Patient Safety” for resident doctors and interns:

The Department of Pharmacology has designed an innovative training course for all resident doctors and interns of AIIMS Kalyani as a compulsory induction course upon joining the institute. The first training programme was inaugurated on 25th July 2024 with release of a Course booklet and training around 50 residents in the first batch. This novel course includes training on Prescription writing, Rational Pharmacotherapy, Pharmacovigilance, Materiovigilance, and Medication error prevention.

3. Workshop on ‘Patient Safety’ for health care professionals:

 The department has started a series of monthly workshop on ‘Patient safety’ for all health care professionals, designed to be organised in association with various clinical departments to provide hands on training to all cadres as a repeated reinforcement measure. The first workshop was held in collaboration with Paediatrics department in August 2024. In addition, under the same programme, the department organises monthly workshop on hand on training on ‘Materiovigilance’ in collaboration with relevant departments.

4. Laboratory Facility for practical training:

 The Department of Pharmacology provides laboratory facilities equipped with modern instruments and technologies that facilitate hands-on learning and experimentation. Students and researchers can conduct a wide range of tests and research activities, ensuring practical exposure alongside theoretical knowledge.

5. Computer Assisted Learning Lab:

 Recognizing the importance of technology in modern-day education, the department has set up a Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) lab. Here, students are taught about drug effects through computer simulations. This interactive mode of learning offers a visual representation, aiding in a deeper understanding of the drug mechanisms and their impact on the human body.

6. Therapeutic Drug Monitoring:

 In collaboration with the Department of Biochemistry, the Department of Pharmacology has initiated a Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) program. Currently, the focus of this program is on monitoring the levels of Lithium and Valproate, two commonly prescribed medications. This initiative ensures that patients receive the correct dosage of medication, optimizing therapeutic effects while minimizing potential side effects.

7. ADR Monitoring Centre (AMC, AIIMS Kalyani) under Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI):

 The department has been actively involved in pharmacovigilance, which involves the monitoring of drug safety post-approval. ADR reports received from various departments are processed under ‘Causality assessment’, following which individual reports are uploaded in Vigiflow to the National Coordinating centre (NCC), IPC, Ghaziabad. Since its inception, more than 316 cases have been reported till August 2024, showcasing the department’s dedication to ensuring drug safety.
Additionally, the department regularly participates in various national programs like ‘National Pharmacovigilance Week’, ‘Med safety week’ etc. Alongside this, outreach programs are conducted at various health centres to spread awareness about drug safety and the importance of reporting adverse drug reactions.

8. MDAE monitoring centre (MDMC, AIIMS Kalyani) under Materiovigilance Programme of India (MvPI):

 Materiovigilance, focusing on the safety of medical devices, is another crucial area where the department is making significant strides. This initiative ensures that any potential risks are identified and reported promptly to MvPI.

9. Prescription Audit Activities:

 With the authorization of the hospital administration, the Department of Pharmacology has initiated prescription audit activities. The main objective of this exercise is to promote rational drug use, encourage writing prescriptions only in generic, identify potential medication errors, and ultimately enhance patient safety.

In short, through its multifaceted academic, research and service activities, the Department of Pharmacology strives to promote safe, rational and effective use of medicines.