Ethical Entrepreneurship in Pharmacy: An Interdisciplinary Solution to a Global Public Health Problem
Authors: Regmi, P., Ayatakshi-Endow, S., Rajkarnikar, R., van Teijlingen, E., Khanal, D.P., Poudel, R.S.
Journal: Europasian Journal of Medical Sciences
Publication Date: 25/09/2026
Abstract:This paper offers a different way of looking at the global problem of the increased use of antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance. In low-income countries, such as Nepal, pharmacies have a key role in dispensing medicine, and local pharmacies often provide health care advice in rural communities. However, the way many pharmacies operate can easily lead to unethical practices that are harmful not only to the health of their recipients, but also to the wider population. Such dangerous business practices involve inappropriate prescription and dispensing of medicine (i.e. antibiotics). Public health professional have promoted better regulation and education to reduce the use of antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance. These approaches have an important role to play, but in this paper, we propose one particular intervention, namely the training of community pharmacy shop owners in sustainable and ethical entrepreneurship. To offer greater insights into the issue we have produced a theoretical framework. We suggest interventions should be co-created with all relevant stakeholders to change perceptions of entrepreneurship, offer management training, thus promoting an ethical and sustainable business culture, and in the long run, improve pharmacy education in these areas.
Source: Manual