Background:Pharmacy education is undergoing global transformation to better align with evolving healthcare demands. However, in Romania, pharmacy curricula remain centrally regulated and standardized, with limited input from graduates or employers. Objective:This study investigates the perceptions of Romanian pharmacy graduates (2009-2023) regarding the relevance of their curriculum, competency development, and professional preparedness across various employment sectors. Methods:A mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey was conducted with 473 alumni from all accredited pharmacy faculties in Romania. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and logistic regression, while qualitative responses underwent thematic content analysis. Results:Graduates reported moderate overall preparedness (Mean = 3.08/5), with significant variation by institution, age, and job sector. High self-assessed competencies were noted in Pharmacology and Communication, while Management, Regulatory Affairs, and Therapy management were identified as key gaps. Disciplines such as Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy were rated highly useful, whereas Physics and Inorganic Chemistry were frequently cited as disproportionately difficult and less applicable. Open-ended responses emphasized the need for greater curricular flexibility, experiential learning, and integration of soft skills and entrepreneurship. Conclusion:The results highlight a misalignment between standardized pharmacy education and the diverse realities of professional practice. The study advocates for alumni-informed reforms, modular curricula, and the integration of transversal competencies to enhance workforce readiness and sector-specific applicability.

Adverse drug reaction (ADR) underreporting remains a critical limitation of pharmacovigilance systems worldwide. In Romania, public awareness of the national ADR reporting system and the factors influencing reporting behaviour have not previously been examined. This study aimed to evaluate public awareness, describe actual reporting behaviour, identify perceived barriers, and determine sociodemographic and behavioural predictors of system knowledge and reporting engagement. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the first half of 2025 in Romania. Data were collected through a self-administered online questionnaire disseminated via snowball sampling on social media platforms. The analytical sample consisted of 302 respondents (N = 302 for the system-awareness models; N = 278 for lifetime reporting behaviour; N = 141 for the subgroup with ADR experience, of whom 140 entered the replication model). Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression were applied. Two main outcomes were examined: knowledge of the national ADR reporting system and lifetime reporting behaviour. Only 16.2% of respondents were aware of the national ADR reporting system, while 62.6% had never heard of it. Pharmaceutical qualification was the strongest independent predictor of system awareness (OR 18.81, 95% CI 7.58–46.72), followed by urban residence (OR 3.09, 95% CI 1.10–8.69). Reporting behaviour was independently predicted by any health-related qualification (OR 2.59), urban residence (OR 2.19), and older age (OR 1.63 per age category). A positive attitude toward reporting was not statistically significantly associated with system awareness; together with the predominance of informational barriers, this pattern suggests that the observed gap reflects informational and structural rather than attitudinal factors. Informational deficits—not knowing how (55.6%) or where (27.8%) to report—were the dominant barriers cited by respondents. ADR underreporting in Romania is primarily attributable to informational deficits rather than attitudinal barriers. Pharmaceutical qualifications and urban residence were the strongest predictors of both system awareness and reporting engagement. Targeted interventions should prioritise structural measures, including simplified digital reporting tools, pharmacist-facilitated reporting, and redesigned medication leaflets incorporating clear reporting pathways.

Coffee is a very popular psychoactive beverage with a complex composition. Besides its stimulant effect due to caffeine, it contains several bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties and potent metabolic activity. Its clinical efficacy is fundamentally determined by the bioavailability and metabolic fate of its constituents. The bioactive components of coffee, such as polyphenols, melanoidins, phytosterols, biogenic amines, and carotenoids, have notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. This review aims to present the main bioactive components of coffee, their biological effects, mechanisms of action, and the influence of preparation methods and individual variability on metabolic outcomes in common chronic diseases. The data are synthesized from clinical, prospective, and interventional studies to examine how processing variables and biological metabolism influence the health-promoting potential of coffee antioxidants. Brewing methods like hot filtration optimize the extraction of these antioxidants. Individual clinical outcomes are further modulated by genetic polymorphisms and gut microbiota variability, which influence the activation of the cellular Nrf2 antioxidant defense pathway.

(1) Background: Regulations governing food supplements vary considerably across countries, allowing products that are prohibited in one jurisdiction to be legally sold in another. Furthermore, online sales enable and facilitate this practice. Regarding pharmaceutical malpractice, the absence of a standardized European framework complicates the evaluation of pharmacist liability. As a result, the specific elements of the liability framework are defined by the national legislation of each Member State. The aim of our review is to map the global regulatory landscape of food supplements and to examine the pharmacist’s professional responsibilities, including instances of malpractice related to this area. (2) Methods: A literature review covering publications from January 2020 to December 2024 was performed using four databases: Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. The search retrieved 8243 records, of which 77 studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. The extracted data were organized into five main themes: pharmacist responsibility and malpractice, food supplement regulation, consumer safety, health claims, and pharmacist knowledge. (3) Results: The literature reviewed indicated a relatively low number of malpractice cases within the pharmacy profession compared to other professions. A higher incidence of cases is observed among male pharmacists and those practicing in the private sector. Notably, no cases have been identified addressing pharmacists’ responsibilities in the dispensing of food supplements. In the context of food supplement regulation, the reviewed literature highlights a lack of standardized terminology and harmonized legislation across different jurisdictions. Therefore, products may be classified differently across jurisdictions. Another observed barrier is the considerable variation in market access requirements across countries. Regarding consumer safety, several irregularities have been observed. Substantial non-compliance in both product composition and labeling has been observed, reflecting insufficient quality control measures. Concerning health claims, significant regulatory non-compliance with European Union regulations has been documented. In addition, widespread misleading advertising practices have been observed. With respect to pharmacists’ knowledge, the reviewed literature identifies several professional challenges within pharmacy practice, particularly those concerning the dispensing of food supplements. (4) Conclusions: This research offers a comprehensive analysis of the literature published over the past five years concerning pharmaceutical malpractice cases, as well as an examination of food supplement regulation and the professional responsibilities of pharmacists. A recurring barrier identified is the absence of unified regulatory frameworks worldwide. This results in uncertainty concerning the pharmacist’s professional role and responsibilities.

Introduction:Professional satisfaction is a key determinant of career commitment and workforce sustainability and retention in the pharmacy sector. The study examines professional satisfaction among Romanian pharmacy graduates by analysing hygiene factors, intrinsic motivators, and perceptions of pay equity, assessing sector-based differences and exploring associations between these dimensions and long-term career commitment. Methods:A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 473 pharmacy graduates (2009-2023). Professional satisfaction was evaluated using 13 structured items from a questionnaire that covered hygiene factors, intrinsic motivators, and perceptions of pay equity. Reliability was assessed with Cronbach's α. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and chi-square tests were applied. Results:The Hygiene Index (α = 0.67; M = 3.28, SD = 0.76) and Motivators Index (α = 0.80; M = 3.22, SD = 0.86) reflected moderate satisfaction. The Pay-Equity Index showed very low scores (α = 0.77; M = 1.86, SD = 0.70). Salary satisfaction (M = 2.22, SD = 1.23) and expectations for future salary increases (M = 2.21, SD = 1.06) were rated as the lowest. Over 80% perceived their income as "much lower" than that of physicians or dentists. Only 7% stated they would "definitely" choose pharmacy again, while 46% responded "definitely not," and over 70% expressed some degree of non-recommitment. Community pharmacists consistently reported lower satisfaction across indices compared to peers in industry or education. Conclusion:Romanian pharmacists report moderate satisfaction with work conditions and collegiality, but widespread dissatisfaction with pay equity and career opportunities. Alarmingly, almost three-quarters of pharmacists said they would not choose pharmacy again, indicating a lack of professional commitment. The results raise substantial concerns about professional commitment and suggest a risk to the long-term sustainability of the Romanian pharmacy workforce. Urgent policy interventions are needed to address salary disparities, improve recognition, and expand career development pathways to retain qualified professionals and ensure the resilience of pharmaceutical services.

Although pharmacist-led vaccination is a global standard for expanding immunization coverage, its adoption in Romania remains at an early stage. While previous studies have focused on early adopters, this research evaluates barriers, perceptions, and readiness among community pharmacies that do not yet provide this service, thereby addressing a critical knowledge gap regarding the “non-vaccinating” majority. A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted among 208 pharmacists representing national chains, regional networks, and independent pharmacies. Quantitative data were analyzed using Chi-square tests and Spearman correlations to identify structural disparities, while a thematic analysis was employed to explore qualitative insights related to professional identity and operational barriers. We identified a clear mismatch between pharmacies’ willingness to provide vaccination services and their practical ability to implement them. Independent pharmacies demonstrated a strong intention to adopt vaccination services (71.4%) but were limited by financial constraints, with high implementation costs identified as a significant barrier (p = 0.014). In contrast, national pharmacy chains had sufficient resources yet faced marked staff resistance, with 43.9% reporting extreme reluctance (p = 0.038). These chains were concentrated in the capital region (p = 0.002), thereby positioning other pharmacies as key providers in underserved areas. Furthermore, thematic analysis revealed a deep-seated “professional identity” crisis, in which pharmacists struggle with the transition from medication specialists to clinical practitioners. The expansion of vaccination services cannot rely on a “one-size-fits-all” strategy. Successful national implementation requires a segmented policy approach, including financial subsidies to support independent pharmacies, change management strategies to engage the corporate workforce, and targeted regulatory education for regional networks to prevent vaccination deserts.

This study examines the prevalence of food supplements (FS) use and its sociodemographic and advertising-related determinants among the Romanian adult population. This research used a nationally representative cross-sectional survey in Romania in 2026. The sample consisted of 1164 adult responders. The prevalence of FS use was 35,9%. Vitamins and minerals were the most commonly used FS. Food supplements reach consumers through a hybrid media ecosystem dominated by television (60.2%) and social media (44.7%), as well as pharmacy-based communication (13.2%), the latter being especially important because it links FS to regulated medicines and may confer a perception of safety. On consumer beliefs about FS safety, the findings highlight simultaneous credulity and criticality within the same group. The results indicate both frequent exposure to FS advertisements and low declared trust in such advertising. Among users, higher self-reported trust in FS advertising was associated with greater self-reported influence of advertising on FS purchase. The extensive use of FS reflects the process of biomedicalization and the perspective of health as a form of consumption. This highlights the importance of implementing stricter FS advertising regulations to protect consumers from misleading claims.

IntroductionPharmacy-based vaccination services are now available in 56 countries, including Romania, that started administering the flu-vaccines in the community pharmacies from 2022. Assessing how pharmacists managed this new pharmaceutical service in Romania is the subject of this study.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among all the pharmacies from Romania that were authorized to provide this service (442 pharmacies, from which 53 were in rural areas). An online survey was created using Google Forms and included 28 items, with 24 closed-ended questions and 4 open-ended questions. The questionnaire covered six sections: General information, Patient perspective, Authorization and training within the pharmacy, Administration of flu vaccine services, Pharmacy logistics, and Staff satisfaction. Descriptive statistics and chi-squared tests were applied.ResultsIn total, 180 pharmacists participated (response rate was 41%), and the respondents were the pharmacists who administered flu vaccines in these pharmacies. Among the respondents, 92.8% were from urban community pharmacies, and most of them were from Bucharest (26.1%) and East Romania. 88% of respondents considered that this new service will significantly impact the future increase in vaccine coverage rates in Romania. Regarding patients’ perception of this pharmaceutical service (provided by pharmacists), the vaccination service was evaluated very positively by 63% patients and positively by 18% patients, with statistically different perceptions between the types of the pharmacies (p < 0.01). A very positive vaccination evaluation was observed more often among national chain pharmacies (73.1%) rather than among local chain pharmacies (35.9%) or independent pharmacies (36.4%). Regarding logistical barriers, 39% of pharmacies reported no issues with vaccine supply. Moreover, 97% of pharmacies had adequate protective materials to safely administer vaccines. In terms of overall satisfaction, 23% of pharmacists reported being very satisfied, while 39% indicated they were satisfied with the new pharmaceutical service they were providing. The majority (82%) felt that their salaries should be increased related to the vaccination service. Additionally, there is a need for improvements in the pharmacy schedule and the advance scheduling of vaccinations.ConclusionThis study was developed to assist future health policies through expansion of advanced pharmaceutical services, and adding other vaccines to community pharmacy portfolios.

Objective : This study aimed to explore the feasibility and impact of implementing locum pharmacist models in Romanian community pharmacies, in the context of growing workforce shortages and operational challenges in the pharmaceutical sector. Methods : A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a 15-question structured questionnaire distributed via a national locum platform and professional forums. A total of 116 valid responses were collected. The questionnaire covered demographics, professional preferences, and financial expectations. Data were analysed using statistical software to identify correlations between variables such as professional experience, interest in locum work, and expected remuneration. Results : Respondents represented a diverse age and experience range, with the majority having between 10 and 20 years of professional experience. Community pharmacy was the dominant area of current employment (76%). Most pharmacists reported difficulty in finding replacements during leave, particularly in rural areas. Over half expressed willingness to work locum shifts if adequately compensated, preferring hourly rates 50% to 100% higher than standard wages. Data indicated a correlation between years of experience and higher salary expectations. The study highlighted distinct professional preferences between administrative and patient-facing roles and emphasised the stress associated with excessive workloads and reduced rest periods. Conclusions : Locum work presents a viable solution to mitigate staffing shortages in Romanian pharmacies, offering flexibility and increased earning potential for pharmacists. However, challenges such as professional isolation, inconsistency in pharmacy systems, and lack of formal support must be addressed to optimise implementation. Integration strategies and legislative clarity will be essential for the long-term success of locum models in the pharmaceutical sector.

Pharmacists, essential healthcare providers, face significant challenges in professional satisfaction and well-being. This study investigates the factors influencing pharmacists’ professional satisfaction, mainly focusing on workload, organizational support, job autonomy, work–life balance, and resilience against burnout. Data were collected from relevant online forums on Facebook and Reddit using a netnographic methodology. The data were anonymized and thematically coded to identify key themes from 23 conversation threads, primarily involving or concerning Romanian pharmacists. The analysis revealed several critical issues: widespread dissatisfaction with salaries, challenges in professional recognition, and the demanding nature of university education. Additional themes included economic and financial insights, global trends and technological impacts, personal experiences and satisfaction, professional growth and education, regulatory and market environment, and workplace dynamics. Findings indicate these factors significantly impact pharmacists’ job satisfaction and overall well-being. The study concludes that addressing these issues through targeted interventions, such as policy reforms, educational updates, and enhanced organizational support, can improve the professional lives of pharmacists, thereby enhancing their contributions to healthcare outcomes.

This cross-sectional study conducted in Romania examines the increasing role of online pharmacies in providing Food for Special Medical Purposes (FSMP) to cancer patients. Key findings indicate patient satisfaction with ease of access, significant challenges related to costs, and the critical role of healthcare professionals in guiding FSMP selection. Introduction. As cancer treatments advance, the demand for supportive nutritional care becomes increasingly critical, with FSMPs playing a vital role in patient recovery and quality of life. Methods. Employing a cross-sectional study design, we surveyed cancer patients from Romania to assess their experiences purchasing FSMPs through traditional and online pharmacies. We analyzed the factors influencing their choices, the perceived benefits and challenges of online access, and the role of healthcare professional guidance in their decision-making process. Results. The study reveals that while patients appreciate the ease of access and the broad spectrum of available FSMPs online, they grapple with the financial burden and the need for reliable information to make informed decisions. Through a cross-sectional analysis, we found that the expertise and recommendations of healthcare professionals remain integral to the FSMP selection process, suggesting that digital solutions should enhance, not replace, traditional healthcare interactions. Moreover, our findings highlight a crucial gap in the taste and variety of FSMPs, suggesting that patient adherence could be improved through product innovation. The study found a significant association between the type of medical unit where patients followed their treatment (state-owned clinic) and whether they received recommendations from a specialist oncologist for using FSMPs. Nutritionists’ recommendations were also significantly associated with a higher likelihood of purchasing FSMPs online. Discussions. The study reveals that despite the benefits of digital access, a crucial need exists for regulatory measures and professional oversight to ensure the safe and informed use of FSMPs. The trust placed in healthcare professionals’ recommendations continues to be instrumental in navigating the digital marketplace. Conclusion. This work paves the way for future strategies to integrate online solutions with established healthcare practices to optimize cancer care in the digital age.

Abstract ObjectiveFood for Special Medical Purposes (FSMP) is a niche area in the food and healthcare industries that produces foods to meet the dietary requirements of people with specific medical conditions. These products provide specific nutrient amounts and ratios, which can be used as a supplement to a conventional diet, part of an entire medical treatment plan, or as a sole source of Nutrition. The market is expected to generate revenues of $19.67 billion in 2028. Most FSMPs products are purchased individually by patients or caregivers. Although these products are not advertised directly to the public might be bought online from pharmacies and other online shops. This research aims to evaluate the online presence of the most important brands within the FSMPs category and how the patients get to the online shops without direct-to-consumer advertisement. Methods:This exploratory qualitative research study examines the online presence of FSMP products and key brands using SEO as the main digital technique. Data sources included Romanian websites, Google SERPs, Brandmentions.com, Semrush, and Ubersuggest. Results: The findings showed that these websites received only a small amount of direct traffic, with only a few hundred monthly visits. To increase organic visibility, businesses must follow regulatory requirements, collaborate with medical experts, engage with potential clients, and exhibit their products at medical events and fairs. Content marketing is crucial for FSMP brands to engage with their target audience and deliver valuable information. Conclusions: FSMP brands cannot advertise directly to consumers. Instead, they should focus on SEO, reputable online pharmacies, e-commerce shops, and content marketing. This research applies to FSMP brands, digital marketers, and online pharmacies to effectively connect with target demographics, promote products, navigate regulatory constraints, and enhance online presence, improving accessibility and awareness.

This study aimed to investigate Romanian physicians’ awareness, recommendation practices, and opinions regarding the use of Foods for Special Medical Purposes (FSMPs) products. A total of ten physicians were interviewed using a structured questionnaire, and their responses were analysed using thematic content analysis. The study found that physicians were aware of FSMPs and recommended them to their patients based on nutritional deficits, weight loss, or deglutition impairments. In addition, disease stage, treatment scheme, taste, affordability, and availability were identified as factors influencing the recommendation and use of FSMPs. While physicians generally did not consult clinical trials, clinical experience was deemed essential for recommending FSMPs to patients. Patients’ feedback regarding the usage and sourcing of FSMPs was generally positive, with some expressing concerns about the availability of different flavours and the costs of purchasing the products. This study concluded that physicians play a vital role in recommending FSMPs to patients and ensuring they have the necessary nutritional support during treatment. However, it may be imperative to consider the provision of additional patient education materials and fostering collaborative efforts with nutritionists in order to optimise the prospects of positive outcomes in oncology treatment, while simultaneously alleviating the financial burdens faced by patients.

Effective communication between pharmacists and patients is essential for therapeutic success. The pharmacist's perspective may differ from that of the patient in terms of effective communication. Our study aimed to assess the communication efficiency in the pharmacist-patient relationship from the pharmacists’ perspective. We hypothesize that the community pharmacist's perspective can lead to relevant aspects of patient-centred communication and their profession. A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online questionnaire addressed to pharmacists. A number of 506 questionnaires were collected, evaluated, analyzed and interpreted. The questionnaire focused on the following main issues: degree of job satisfaction, essential skills of a pharmacist working in a community pharmacy, different aspects of pharmacist-patient communication, shared decision-making, patient monitoring plan and other elements related to a patient under treatment (healthy lifestyle, receptivity to counselling, loyalty and appreciation of pharmaceutical services). The pharmacist's efficiency in communication with the patient and professional education were also targeted in the study. There are no significant differences between job satisfaction in women compared to men. However, the job satisfaction increases with the average age. Caregiver, communicator and life-long learner were identified as essential skills of a pharmacist. Pharmacists participating in the study generally perceive themselves as good communicators with the patient. Nevertheless, many particular aspects of communication with patients can be greatly improved. The lack of training in the spirit of the „patient-centred communication” concept has been identified. Still, more than a third of the respondents are missing the need for professional training. A periodic evaluation of the efficiency of pharmacist-patient communication in the community pharmacy is necessary. The degree of subjectivity of the pharmacist from this perspective and self-sufficiency would be significantly diminished if the pharmacists had access to the results of the periodic evaluations.

Segmentation and targeting are very important steps in the marketing activity to create the pharmacy's best positioning. Knowing more about the composition and interests of patients' segments will help pharmacies properly design the mix of services and the marketing approach. The current study is based on a quantitative market research performed in 2012 with a transversal design from 1478 valid questionnaires for a representative sample of the Romanian adult population. We used logistic regression to check the association and the direction of the association for each variable regarding the reasons for choosing a pharmacy (price, availability of products, attitude of the pharmacist and proximity), with the socio-demographic variables. We also conducted an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) on those variables and identified three behavioural groups: i) Pharmacy driven, ii) Pharmacist driven, and iii) Pragmatic driven people. Pharmacy driven group are interested in the pharmacy itself and its characteristics (recommended by a doctor, part of a retail chain, with good availability of medicines, generous opening hours and offering certain commercial effects such as discounts or promotions). Pharmacist driven consist of patients interested in a specific the pharmacist due to her/his professionalism and interaction with the patients. The pragmatic group was influenced by the prices and the proximity of the pharmacy to their domicile.

Abstract Introduction: Nearly three out of four European citizens purchase goods online. The main advantages of using an online pharmacy are lower prices and convenience. In addition, patients appreciate a higher degree of privacy and access to a wider selection of health products. Study shows that the number of online users is on the rise in major countries like the USA, EU member states or India. Methods: The study is based on data collected in April 2020 at the country level (Romania) from a sample of 789 adults over the age of 18, using CATI. A simple random sampling procedure was applied, with a confidence interval of 3.5% and a confidence level of 95%. Results: About 17.7% of Romanians have purchased healthcare products through online pharmacies or drugstores, of those 60% are women, between 30 - 64 years old (84 %), have a monthly income of more than 2700 lei (90%), and a university degree (76%). The most common reasons for choosing an online pharmacy are the ability to compare prices, shop quickly, and have prompt access to items and information, together with a wider range of products. Conclusions: Respondents’ motivation to use online pharmacies appears to be more related to the benefits of the online media, rather than to some unmet needs in brick-and-mortar pharmacies. Search capabilities, access to more information, price comparison, as well as a larger range of products and availability 24/7 are some reasons why patients utilise online pharmacies to purchase medicines.

Abstract The main factors perceived by patients as important in selecting a pharmacy were studied for many years. Selected studies mentioned primarily factors such as location, pharmacist competence and attitude, pharmacy services and premiums, and prices. We compared the results from our study in June 2012 with the results of the most recent study conducted in April 2020 focusing on the main factors influencing the patient’s option for a specific pharmacy. Respondents were asked an open question about what is the most important factor they consider when choosing a pharmacy and then answers were grouped into main categories. The urban population has been considered for both studies. The results tell us that the factors influencing the choice of a pharmacy remained unchanged over the time: i) prices, ii) availability of medicine, iii) professionalism of the pharmacist and iv) pharmacy proximity is the most mentioned by our respondents in both studies. However, the rank between these factors changed. Prices remain the top factor while the Availability of medicine (products) has been overcome by the Professionalism of the pharmacist (Attitude of the pharmacist) and Proximity. Using the logistic regression and Odds Ratio, we tried to identify socio-demographic segments significantly associated with these factors. Persons with low income are very likely to indicate Price as the most important factor in choosing a pharmacy in 2012 (OR = 2.088, p=0.018), while respondents aged 65 years and older are more likely not to indicate Price as the most important factor compared with other age groups, in both 2012 and 2020 studies (OR = 0.4, p=0.009, respective OR= 0.325, p=0.010). For this type of respondent, 65 years old and above, the attitude of the pharmacist is the most important factor influencing their choice of a pharmacy in 2020, while products availability has been the most frequent answer for this segment back in 2012. Results in Romania are similar to the ones collected from other countries as reported by other studies. However, particularities of the local market and regulations are influencing the ranking.

At the European level, the evolution in the number of pharmacies differs from case to case. Romania is the 5th among European countries regarding the number of pharmacies, the registered number increased from 5,700 to 7,150 from 2008 to 2011. The aim of this paper was to determine which of the three variables (economical, demographical, and legislative) had an influence on the development of the number of pharmacies in Romania. The design of the study was a longitudinal one, using quantitative data analysis and also methods of qualitative analysis of the European and national legislations regarding regulations on the functioning of pharmacies. As determined after the statistical processing, there is an insufficient correlation between the development of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the growth of the number of pharmacies. When it comes to the demographic argument, Romania presented a demographical decrease in the studied period of time, which justifies even less the significant development of the pharmaceutical market. The third element, legislation, seems to offer a possible explanation for this evolution.