Overview of pharmacological research activities in North Eastern states of India in last 5 years

Abstract

This brief overview intends to shed light on the nature of research activities in the field of pharmacology undertaken mainly by the pharmacology departments of various medical, veterinary and pharmacy colleges from the states of Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Tripura. Both experimental and clinical pharmacological research have been undertaken but experiments on identification and validation of diverse pharmacological activities of medicinal plants used as folklore medicines in the north east have been at the forefront. Drug use surveys, disease burden estimation, drug safety monitoring and investigator initiated small scale clinical studies have enriched our knowledge. The contributions have an important bearing on the overall spectrum of pharmacology research in the country while being relevant and sensitive to the needs of the local population. Emphasis on strengthening the research infrastructure as well as building up research manpower capacity are needed to enable greater involvement of the local community in pharmacological research.