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PCB Pharmacist Registration study materials
PCB Pharmacist Registration study resources

PCB Pharmacist Registration: Biochemistry and Physiology

PCB Pharmacist Registration · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.

All guide sections

Biochemistry and Physiology

Core Concepts

Biochemistry and physiology provide the foundation for drug action. Candidates must understand cell biology, enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways (glycolysis, Krebs cycle), and organ system physiology (cardiovascular, renal, respiratory, endocrine). Key topics include acid-base balance, electrolytes, and homeostasis. Molecular biology (DNA replication, protein synthesis) is also tested.

Question Traps

  • Enzyme inhibition: Competitive inhibitors increase Km but not Vmax; non-competitive inhibitors decrease Vmax but not Km.
  • Acid-base disorders: Respiratory vs. metabolic; compensation mechanisms. For example, metabolic acidosis leads to hyperventilation (respiratory compensation).
  • Hormone actions: Insulin lowers blood glucose; glucagon raises it. Questions may ask about counter-regulatory hormones.

Worked Example / Rule of Thumb

Question: A patient has low pH, low HCO3-, and low pCO2. What is the disorder? Metabolic acidosis with respiratory compensation. Rule of thumb: “ROME” – Respiratory Opposite (pH up, CO2 down), Metabolic Equal (pH down, HCO3- down).

Pharmacy Law, Ethics and Regulatory Affairs (Bangladesh)

Core Concepts

This domain covers Bangladesh pharmacy laws, regulatory bodies, and ethical practice. Candidates must know the Drug Act 1940, Drug Rules 1945, Pharmacy Council of Bangladesh, and Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA). Key topics include drug registration, licensing, scheduling (prescription vs. OTC), advertising rules, and professional ethics. Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and pharmacovigilance are also relevant.

Question Traps

  • DGDA vs. Pharmacy Council: DGDA regulates drug quality, registration, and licensing; Pharmacy Council regulates pharmacy education and professional registration.
  • Prescription-only vs. OTC: Some drugs are restricted to prescription; OTC status depends on scheduling.
  • Ethics: Confidentiality, informed consent, and conflict of interest are common ethical questions.

Worked Example / Rule of Thumb

Question: Which body is responsible for drug registration in Bangladesh? DGDA. Rule of thumb: “DGDA controls drugs; Pharmacy Council controls pharmacists.”