I am about to open a Botika Ng Bayan. This is my first venture into the medicine/pharmaceutical business, and was hoping that you could give me some advice as to what medicine to stock up on?

Which ones usually sell well and during which season?(Asked by Kate, 22, female, of Quezon City)

Dr. Yolanda Robles replies:
You will be needing a registered pharmacist to handle the drug supply management of your botika as required by the Bureau of Food and Drugs. For you to know which to prioritize in your purchase of stocks, you need to do a little survey of health care facilities around your drugstore. Try to talk with doctors and also those who manage clinics and hospital outpatient departments.

The reason for this is, the need for drugs varies for different locations and it would be good if you are addressing their need for medicines. You may also look at the website of Department of Health to find out information on common diseases as well as chronic diseases affecting Filipinos.

» medicine, pharmacist, chronic diseases, pharmaceutical

Above is an excerpt from PharmASSIST, a public information service in the RxPinoy Medication Guide that allows visitors to inquire about drugs and medications. Dr. Yolanda Robles is Dean of the UP College of Pharmacy and RxPinoy Medication Guide volunteer. To contact her directly, click on her name above to visit PharmASSIST.