Eczac

Eczac is a term used in Turkish to refer to a pharmacist or apothecary; the standard Turkish noun for the profession is eczacı. The spelling "eczac" appears in transliterations or older texts that omit the final i, and it also occurs in various compound forms such as eczacılık (the practice of pharmacy) and eczacıbaşı (a surname and company name). Etymology: the word derives from ecza, meaning medicine or remedy, with the agentive suffix -cı, producing the sense of a person who deals with medicines.

Traditionally, an eczacı prepared and dispensed medicines, provided pharmaceutical advice, and ensured the safe use of medications. In modern practice, a pharmacist is a healthcare professional who holds a university degree in pharmacy and is licensed to dispense medications, counsel patients, perform drug utilization reviews, and participate in public health activities. Pharmacists work in community pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and the pharmaceutical industry, often collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals to optimize therapy and promote patient safety.

Regulation and training: Licensing and professional standards are set by national or regional authorities. In Turkey, the profession is regulated, with universities offering faculties of pharmacy and professional bodies overseeing practice. Continuing education and professional ethics are generally required to maintain licensure.

See also: Pharmacy, Pharmacist, Apothecary, Medicine, Drug regulation.