Development of a teaching model to advance skills in industrial pharmaceutical formulation and regulatory aspects

To design and critically evaluate a laboratory-scale pharmaceutical formulation practical that enables pharmaceutical science students to develop work-based skills relating to industrial pharmacy such as problem solving, pharmaceutical calculations, research, legal checking, communication, practical aptitude, handling of medicinal products, record keeping, and ability to interpret, analyze and report data.

Nine laboratory practical sessions were designed whereby students formulated a range of dosage forms and conducted corrective and preventative actions (CAPAs) exercises. A master batch formula outlined the specifications for each product and a practical sheet was provided for the students to record their activities. Student evaluation of the exercise was performed via a self-administered 17-item questionnaire in the final week.

Twenty-four students completed the workshops over two year groups (2015 year group n = 11, 2016 year group n = 13). The mean score across both groups was 15.6 out of 20.

The questionnaire had a 100% response rate and the majority of students agreed that the classes were a useful teaching method and that they fostered key skills required for pharmaceutical formulation and regulation.

Laboratory classes effectively delivered course content relating to industrial-based pharmaceutical formulation and helped to develop relevant skills.