Legal responsibilities of the pharmacist in charge of professional practice in drug retailing: Current status and recommendations for improvement

The pharmacist in charge of professional practice at a drug retail establishment plays a central role in ensuring legal compliance in pharmaceutical business activities and protecting the legitimate rights and interests of medicine users. With the expansion of pharmaceutical distribution systems and increasing requirements for service quality, the legal responsibilities attached to this position have become more specifically regulated. However, practical implementation reveals persistent shortcomings in delineating the scope of responsibility among the pharmacist in charge, the establishment owner, and the individual directly committing a violation. Several provisions remain inconsistent and have not kept pace with evolving forms of misconduct, thereby creating difficulties in inspection, supervision, and enforcement. This study employs normative legal analysis, a synthesis of practical experience, and comparative legal research to examine regulations governing the administrative, civil, criminal, professional, and ethical responsibilities of pharmacists in charge. Based on an assessment of current practice and the identification of existing legal obstacles, the study proposes recommendations for improving the legal framework, contributing a scientific basis for reforming pharmaceutical law, enhancing the effectiveness of state administration, and safeguarding the public’s right to the safe and rational use of medicines.