Pharmaceutics is the overall process of developing a drug molecule or medicine or active pharmaceutical ingredient or new chemical entity into an approved therapeutic dosage form that is safe and effective in treating or preventing disease in a patient. It is a complex process requiring multiple scientific, medical, legal, commercial, and regulatory expertise to design and formulate an effective formulation. The Department of Pharmaceutics is where students are taught and educated about this complex science. Students learn this by our experienced faculties teaching and by experiencing their practical in pharmaceutics from their first semester till the 8th semester of the Bachelor of Pharma course & from the 1st year till the 5th year of the Doctor of Pharmacy course. Our department established the Masters in Pharmacy course in the year 2007. Our M. Pharm students are involved in high-end research on novel drug delivery systems like nanoparticle formulation development and testing. This will gain them in-depth knowledge in the subject and help them develop expertise in the domain they will choose for their career in the future.
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Department of Pharmaceutics
Faculty’s Expertise
The department’s distinguished faculty members are a cornerstone of its success. Renowned worldwide for their unparalleled expertise and invaluable contributions to the field, they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom and laboratory. Their dedication extends beyond imparting knowledge; they act as mentors, guiding students on a transformative journey of intellectual and professional growth. Throughout the program, students benefit from personalized attention, insightful feedback, and the opportunity to learn from the best minds in the field.
Highlights of the Department
The department recognizes the immense value of collaboration in fostering innovation and progress. It has active MOUs with leading pharmaceutical industries in Kerala, and we also collaborate on their project works. These collaborations provide students with invaluable exposure to real-world industry practices and challenges, allowing them to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Additionally, such partnerships offer opportunities for faculty members to engage in collaborative research projects with industry professionals, leading to the development of solutions that address critical industry needs.
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M. pharm Pharmaceutics
For those seeking to specialize after B. Pharm, the department offers a Master of Pharmacy in Pharmaceutics program. This program delves into the intricate world of dosage form development technologies. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest advancements in drug formulation development from tablet, capsule, liquid formulations, encapsulations, controlled release mechanisms, targeted delivery systems, and the nanotechnology in pharmaceuticals. Through a combination of intensive theoretical instruction and practical laboratory sessions, students develop the expertise to design and develop innovative drug delivery systems that address critical challenges faced by the industry. These challenges may include improving drug bioavailability, targeting specific organs or tissues, and overcoming limitations associated with conventional drug delivery methods
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M. pharm Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs
For students seeking and industry job with authority the department has started a new course of Master of Pharmacy in Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs. The regulatory department in the pharmaceutical company plays a crucial role in ensuring that all processes involved in drug development and commercialization comply with established regulations set forth by the countries of marketing. The students have highly modernized laboratory which similar the work station in the pharmaceutical companies. We have the electronic Common Technical Documenting software used in companies for filing their eCTD in US, Europe, Canada, Japan, and other regulated and semi regulated markets. Nowadays most of the countries are accepting eCTD format for filing the product. The students when they leave the campus for job will definitely full fill all the expectations of the industry with confidence.
Modern Laboratories
The pharmaceutics department has advanced and highly sophisticated instruments & machinery for research, development, manufacturing, and testing of pharmaceutical formulations. The lab has a tablet punching machine, blenders, a dissolution testing apparatus, a disintegration tester, Brookfield viscometers, extruders, spheronizers, ointment filling, a crimping and sealing machine, lyophilizers, and other instruments for in-process and finished formulation manufacturing and testing. The labs provide students with hands-on experience in various aspects of drug formulation research and development of various formulations. This practical exposure allows students to experiment, troubleshoot challenges, and refine their skills, thereby preparing them for research activities.
Research Activities
The Department of Pharmaceutics takes immense pride in its remarkable record of research and academic achievements. The department has consistently secured research funding of around 20 lakhs, a testament to its ability to attract support for groundbreaking projects. This funding has not only empowered researchers to explore cutting-edge technologies but has also facilitated the acquisition of sophisticated equipment, further propelling research endeavors. The department’s commitment to knowledge dissemination is evident in its impressive publication record. Numerous books and book chapters authored by esteemed faculty members have enriched the field of pharmaceutical sciences globally. These publications serve as valuable resources for students, researchers, and industry professionals alike, fostering a deeper understanding and advancing the application of pharmaceutical knowledge.
The department’s dedication to research excellence is further solidified by its patent record. The department holds a number of patents, demonstrating its ability to translate research findings into tangible solutions that can benefit patients and revolutionize pharmaceutical care.
Patents
Patent Title | Poly (D,L—Lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles containing clopidogrelbisulfate for improved efficacy | Design and charecterization of nanoparticles containing andrographispaniculata for colo rectal cancer. | Pharmaceutical composition of Herbal Nanosuspension for supportive management of Dengue with Carica. | Development charecterization and evaluation of anti-inflamatory and anti-arthritic potential of etoricoxib topical gel. | In Situ Gel for ocular Administration. | Development and evaluation of chitosan nanoparticles dry powder inhalations for tuberculosis | Topical Nanogel of Senna Alata Leaf Extract for Anti-Fungal Treatment. |
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Patent Application Number | 6409/CHE/2015 | 201641016724 | 202341040722 A | 202321045227 A | 202341080258 A | 202441037635 A | 202441087362 A |
Date of filling | 30-11-2015 | 13-05-2016 | 15-06-2023 | 05-07-2023 | 25-11-2023 | 13-05-2024 | 12-11-2024 |
Granted on | 26-02-2022 | 27-12-2023 | |||||
Patent Number | 390562 | 490025 |
Publications
- K.A Raheena, K.V Afnan, Preetha S Panicker, Chandran Ajith, Chenkulathil Aswathy, Naseena, Lameesa Banu, P Shafin, H Swathi. Investigation into the antidiabetic effects of a developed Polyherbal Nanosuspension and its assessment. J Adv Zool. 2023;44(3):512-520.
- K.A Raheena, A Sumathi, K.V Afnan, Preetha Panicker, Chandran Ajith, Safa Muhammed. Formulation and Evaluation of Topically Retained Hydrogels Loaded with Timolol Maleate Microspheres for Extended Release in Treating Glaucoma. J Adv Zool. 2023;44(3):530-539.
- Raheena K A, Najma C, Sheron Joseph, Afnan K V. Formulation and Evaluation of polyherbal Nanosuspension from Tinospora and Syzygium cumini IJPRA. 2023; 8(1) 505-510.
- Afnan KV, Raheena KA, Sheron Joseph. Formulation and evaluation of herbal face cream with Neem. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Applications. 2023;8(1):488-490.
- Afnan KV, Jamsheer KA, Safa Muhammed P and Raheena KA. Formulation and evaluation of herbal nanosuspension of Scoparia dulcis. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences. 2023;13(01) 2023:339–343.
- Dr. Preetha. S. Panicker, Prof. Junise.V, Ajith Chandran, Afnan KV, Aswathy C, Raheena KA, Naseena U, Lameesa banu VP, Shafin P, Abeesha Jumana VA, Swathi H. Aquasomes- A Nano Biopharmaceutical Carrier System. 2023;13(3), 945-95.
- Mohan Linu, K.K Nidhaa, P.C Sai Kerthana, Chandran Ajith. Case report on late onset of warfarin-induced coagulopathy in a patient with cardiovascular accident. World J Pharm Pharmaceut Sci. 2022;11(5):1657-1660.
- Chenkulathil Aswathy, Chandran Ajith. Formulation and in-vitro evaluation of floating tablet of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, xanthan gum, and carbopol 934 P using zidovudine as a model drug. Eur J Pharm Med Res. 2022;9(7):360-382.
- Chenkulathil Aswathy, Chandran Ajith, Parvine Farshana, V Jamsheeda, K Shahina, Subeena. Preparation and evaluation of polyherbal hair oil: an effective cosmetic. Int J Pharm Res Anal. 2022;7(4):264-270.
- Eugine Leoprakash, Ramarmohan kumar, Navabshanirfan, Subramanian mohanraj, C hidambaram kumarappan. Evaluation Of Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory, And Antipyretic Activities of Ziziphus Mauritania Lam Leaves in Animal Models, Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine.2022;4: 100153.
- PT S Joseph S, V A, SS S, Anil K. Antiestrogenic and toxicological evaluation of methanolic extract of Saraca asoca and Cynometra travancorica. J. Res.Pharm. 2022; 26(5): 1261-1271.
- Rekha M, Safa Muhammed P. Formulation and Evaluation of Oro dispersible tablets of Diltiazem hydrochloride using Musa Paradisiaca (Banana powder) as natural super disintegrant. Published in International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Applications,2022; 7(2): 590-598.
- Raheena K A , Safa Muhammed P, Vivek M. Formulation and characterization of a polyherbal formulation for treatment of photosensitive skin disorders. European Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research, 2022;9 (5): 265-270.
- Naseena. U, Rekha M. Design and Characterization of Chronomodulated drug delivery of tolbutamide for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Research,2022; 23(3): 216-236.
- Safoora V, Afnan K. V, Fathima Farsana T.E, Nima Krishnan & Shabna Ummer C. V. Formulation and evaluation of hair gel using methi and curry leaves. European Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research. 2022;9(5):265-270.
- Afnan K. V, Ajay A, Akhila Sahadevan, Safa Basheer & Shahina P. C. Formulation and evaluation of Anti-acne face wash using Cinnamon and Neem extracts. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. 2022;11(9):1022-1030.
- Preetha S Panicker , Gazala Parveen , G Jeyabalan , Insilico Antiurolithiatic Screening of Luffa acutangula(L), Roxb Isolated constituents , Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Research, 2021;11(2) :21-27.
- Dr.Preetha S Panicker , Dr.Manjusha M.P,Vijayakumar B Evaluation of In Vitro Antiurolithiatic Activity of Luffa Acutangula L(Roxb),Ahalia International Journal of Advanced Science and technology,2021; 1(3): 20-27
- Sumathi, A., T. N. K. Suriyaprakash, and P. Balan. "Immunomodulary therapy using phytosomes containing Nymphaea nouchali extract complexed with phospholipids." Current Trends in Biotechnology & Pharmacy. 2020:510-524.
- Preetha S Panicker , Manjusha M.P ,Adverse Drug Reactions, Journal Of Hospital Pharmacy An Official Publication Of Bureau For Health & Education Status Upliftment (Constitutionally Entitled As Health-Education, Bureau),2020;15(4): 89-101.
- K.P Mohammed Haneefa, N.M Shilpa, V Junise, Chandran Ajith. Formulation and evaluation of medicated soap of Ixora coccinea root extract for dermal infections. J Pharm Sci Res. 2019;11(8):3094-3097.
- Preetha. S. Panicker, L. V. Vigneshwaran ,Manjusha M. P. Review on Luffa Acutangula L.: Ethnobotany, hytochemistry, Nutritional Value and Pharmacological Properties, Pharma Science Monitor an International Journal Of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharma Science Monitor 2019;10(3) : 152-159
- A.A Safeera, V Junise, T.N.K Suryaprakash, P.V Hafsa, Chandran Ajith. A novel approach for the management of tuberculosis. World J Pharm Pharmaceut Sci. 2017;6(7):1315-1325.
- Mohammed Haneefa KP, Anagha P, Jithya A, Shilpa NM, Sintu Jose. Recent burn cure management studies, Rapports De Pharmacie. 2016;2 (2):2016, 213-223,ISSN: 2455-0507. Suriyaprakash, T. N. K., Sumathi Arumugam, and Soumya Sreejith. "Design and Development of Taste Masked Cefpodoxime Dispersible Tablets." Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology 2017;10(1) : 239-244.
- Preetha S Panicker and V. Sivakumar ,Measurement Of Bioadhesive Strength Of Mucoadhesive Buccal”Patches: Design Of An In Vitro Assembly, Research Paper International Journal Of Pharmacy And Pharmaceutical Analysis. 2016; 02(01) : 1-6
- Paramasivam, Balan, Sumathi Arumugam, and Suriyaprakash Timmakondu Narasimhan Kuppusamy. "HPTLC method for the quantification of ellagic acid in different Eucalyptus species." World Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences 2016: 212-220.
- S Joseph, N Varghese, L Thomas A study on prescribing pattern of antihypertensive medications in a tertiary care hospital in the Malabar region. Der Pharmacia Lettre, 2014;6(4) :132-37.
- Revathy Krishnan, T.N.K Suriyaprakash, Sheron Joseph, Formulation and evaluation of simvastatin buccal adhesive tablets. Int J Pharm 2014; 4(3):113-122.
- Arun Rasheed1*, Madhu Naik, Kotappadath Pillanayil Mohammed Haneefa, Raveendran Pillai Arun Kumar1 and Abdul Kharim Azeem. Formulation, characterization and comparative evaluation of Trivanga bhasma: A herbo-mineral Indian traditional medicine, Pak. J. Pharm. Sci.2014 ;27(4):793-800.
- Haneefa Mohammed K P, Abid , Hanan, Shahima K, Mohanta, Guru Prasad, Nayar, Chandini. Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Emulgel of Pothos scandens Linn for Burn Wound Healing Activity, Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Cuddalore.2014; 6 (2): 63-67.
- Arun Rasheed1*, Madam Teja Sri4, Kotappadath Pillanayil Mohammed Haneefa2, Raveendran Pillai Arun Kumar1 and Abdul Kharim Azeem Formulation, standardization and pharmacological studies of Saraswataristam: A polyhedral preparation, Pak. J. Pharm. Sci.2014;27(3): 551-557.
- Arun Rasheed1*, Madhu Naik4, Kotappadath Pillanayil Mohammed Haneefa2, Raveendran Pillai Arun Kumar1 and Abdul Kharim Azeem. Formulation, characterization and comparative evaluation of Trivanga bhasma: A herbo-mineral Indian traditional medicine, Pak. J. Pharm. Sci.2014;27(4):793 -800.
- Haneefa Mohammed K P, Abid ,Hanan, Shahima K, Mohanta, Guru Prasad, Nayar, Chandini. Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Emulgel of Pothos scandens Linn for Burn Wound Healing Activity, Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Cuddalore 2014;6(2): 63-67.
- Arun Rasheed1*, Madam Teja Sri4, Kotappadath Pillanayil Mohammed Haneefa2, Raveendran Pillai Arun Kumar1 and Abdul Kharim Azeem Formulation, standardization and pharmacological studies of Saraswataristam: A polyhedral preparation,. Pak. J. Pharm. Sci.2014 27(3):551-557
- Prasanth, N. V., S. P. Rasheed, T. Thomas, S. Joseph, and C. P. Varghese. Evaluation of in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of Garcinia Cambogia. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences2023; 5( 2).
- K.P.Mohammed Haneefa 1* , Sherry Easo2 , P.V.Hafsa3, Guru Prasad Mohanta4, Chandini Nayar 5 et al. Emulgel: An Advanced Review .J. Pharm. Sci. 2013;5(12): 254 – 258.
- Suriyaprakash, T. N. K., Prabu, S. L., Arumugarajan, A., & Sumathi, A. Formulation and Evaluation of Oral Controlled Release Clarithromycin Matrix Tablets using Hydrophilic Polymer. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Nanotechnology (2013); 6(4): 2255-2259.
- Haneefa Mohammed K P, Abraham, Anu, Saraswathi, R Mohanta, Guru Prasad, Nayar, Chandini. Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Gel of Basella alba for wound healing activity. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Cuddalore.2012;4(1): 1642-1648.
- Preetha S Panicker,RV Krishnan,S Repaka ,Formulation and Evaluation of Sintered Matrix Tablets of Diltiazem Hydrochloride, Research J.pharm.and Tech.2011;4 (5): 907-912
- Muhammed Haneefa, Shahima Hanan K, Saraswathy R, Guru Prasad Mohanta, Chandini Nayar Formulation and evaluation of herbal gel of Pothos scandens Linn, , Asian pacific journal of tropical medicine.2010; 3(12): 988-992.
- Preetha S Panicker ,A R Mullaicharam ,R U Umamaheswari,K .Geetha .Haemorrhoids , Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology (RJPT) 2010; 03 (02).
- Preetha S Panicker,Nephrolithiasis, International Journal of Comprehensive Pharmacy, (IJCP) 2010 ;1( 01).
- Preetha s Panicker,Synthesis and biological evaluation of some novel oxo-quinazoline derivatives for their anti-bacterial activity ,Research journal of pharmaceutical, biological and chemical sciences, April-June 2010; 1( 2): 36.
- GS Bangale,BS Rathinaraj,K S Rajesh,G V Shinde ,DG Umalker,Preetha s Panicker,Design and Evaluation of Transdermal films of Atenolol, Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research,2010,2(3):593-604
- Afnan K V, Farsana C, Mohamed Fawaz, Muhamed Farhan M, Shahana Sherin VP, Sreelakshni Nechikattu Palliyaliyil. Formulation and Evaluation of Polyherbal Anti-Aging Cream Containing Amla and Basil Extracts. International Journal of Research and Analytical Reviews. 2025;12(1):789–792.
- Ashika S, Baby Haseena, Fathima Hasna, Shahid Babu, Mohammed Ansith, Afnan KV. Harnessing Nature: Antioxidant and Antibacterial Efficacy of Herbal Peel-off Facial Masks. International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts.2024;12(7): 148-150.
- Afra , Afnan K. V. , Fathima Shana A, Niosomes As Novel Drug Delivery System, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2024, Vol 2, Issue 7, 1484-1490.
- Afnan KV, Afra, Phytosomes As Novel Drug Delivery System o International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences – Aug,2024
HANDS ON TRAINING: PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATION OPTIMIZATION USING DESIGN OF EXPERIMENT (DOE)
The Department of Pharmaceutics, Al Shifa College of Pharmacy, organized a one-day hands-on training program titled “Pharmaceutical Formulation Optimization Using Design of Experiment (DOE)”on 31st July 2025. The program was designed to provide practical insights into the application of DOE in pharmaceutical formulation development
GCC REGULATORY INSIGHTS: NAVIGATING MARKETING AUTHORIZATION, POST-APPROVAL & COSMETICS REGULATIONS
The 1st batch M. Pharm 2nd Semester students of Regulatory Affairs and Pharmaceutics had an interactive session with Ms. Deepa Jayakrishnan, Regulatory Affairs Manager, Proderma Middle East, Dubai. The webinar focused on regulatory affairs in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), offering a comprehensive overview of the regulatory environment surrounding pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
PHARMACEUTICAL REGULATORY INSIGHTS-3: NAVIGATING EU & IRELAND REGULATIONS – OPPORTUNITIES, EXAMS, APPLICATION PROCEDURES
A webinar on “Pharmaceutical Regulatory Insights: Navigating EU & Ireland Regulations – Opportunities, Exams, Application Procedures” was conducted on 25th August 2025 as part of the Cross-Border Webinar Series (III). The session aimed to provide students and professionals with knowledge about the European pharmaceutical regulatory system, career opportunities, and skill requirements in the global regulatory field.
REPORT ON PHARMACEUTICAL REGULATORY INSIGHTS – 4: REGULATORY ASPECTS OF MEDICAL DEVICES IN EUROPE – INSIGHTS FROM GERMANY
As part of the ongoing Cross-Border Webinar Series (IV), a session on “Pharmaceutical Regulatory Insights: Regulatory Aspects of Medical Devices in Europe – Insights from Germany” was held on 29th August 2025. The program was designed to provide students and professionals with an in-depth understanding of the European regulatory framework for medical devices, while also highlighting career prospects and evolving trends in the global healthcare industry.
PHARMACEUTICAL REGULATORY INSIGHTS-2: PHARMA MARKETS BEYOND BORDERS – REGULATORY SYSTEMS OF SOUTH AFRICA
The Department of Pharmaceutics & Regulatory Affairs at Al Shifa College of Pharmacy successfully conducted the second session of its Cross-Border Webinar Series on August 4, 2025. The theme of the session was “Pharmaceutical Regulatory Insights: Pharma Markets beyond Borders – Regulatory Systems of South Africa”.
MOU SIGNING WITH CHETHANA PHARMACEUTICALS
In continuation of our industry–academia collaboration activities, Al Shifa College of Pharmacy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chethana Pharmaceuticals, Kerala, with a validity period of five years. The MoU signing ceremony was held at Chethana’s office, Ambalakkat Road, Perintalmanna.
INDUSTRIAL VISIT TO KOTTAKKAL ARYA VAIDYA SALA
AIMST University students and our staff members visited Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal, on 14th August 2025. This visit was organized by the Department of Pharmaceutics, Al Shifa College of Pharmacy in collaboration with Arya Vaidya Sala, with the objective of enhancing students’ understanding of traditional systems of medicine and contemporary research methodologies in medicinal plant sciences.
A VISIT TO AGAPPE DIAGNOSTICS, ERNAKULAM
On 22nd September 2025, the Regulatory Affairs PG students of Al Shifa College of Pharmacy visited Agappe Diagnostics, Ernakulam, where the team provided an insightful overview of the company, including its history, policies, markets, and future plans.
HANDS ON TRAINING: PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATION OPTIMIZATION USING DESIGN OF EXPERIMENT (DOE)
GCC REGULATORY INSIGHTS: NAVIGATING MARKETING AUTHORIZATION, POST-APPROVAL & COSMETICS REGULATIONS
PHARMACEUTICAL REGULATORY INSIGHTS-3: NAVIGATING EU & IRELAND REGULATIONS – OPPORTUNITIES, EXAMS, APPLICATION PROCEDURES
REPORT ON PHARMACEUTICAL REGULATORY INSIGHTS – 4: REGULATORY ASPECTS OF MEDICAL DEVICES IN EUROPE – INSIGHTS FROM GERMANY
PHARMACEUTICAL REGULATORY INSIGHTS-2: PHARMA MARKETS BEYOND BORDERS REGULATORY SYSTEMS OF
SOUTH AFRICA
INDUSTRIAL VISIT TO KOTTAKKAL ARYA VAIDYA SALA
Student Visit from AIMST University to Al Shifa College of Pharmacy under Global Student Exchange Program
MOU SIGNING WITH CHETHANA PHARMACEUTICALS
Industrial visit to Agappe Diagnostics