RRB Pharmacist Syllabus
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts examinations for various paramedical posts, including Pharmacist (Entry Grade). Understanding the syllabus is crucial for aspiring candidates to prepare effectively for the Computer-Based Test (CBT), which is the primary stage of the selection process.
RRB Pharmacist Exam Pattern 2025: At a Glance
The RRB Pharmacist CBT typically follows a standardized pattern, designed to assess both professional knowledge and general aptitude.
1. Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
2. Total Questions: 100
3. Total Marks: 100
4. Duration: 90 minutes (120 minutes for PwBD candidates with a scribe)
5. Type of Questions: Objective Type Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
6. Marking Scheme: 1 mark awarded for each correct answer.
7. Negative Marking: 1/3rd of the marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer. There is no penalty for unanswered questions.
The exam is divided into four main sections:
1. Professional Ability (Pharmacy): 70 Questions (70 Marks)
2. General Awareness: 10 Questions (10 Marks)
3. General Arithmetic, General Intelligence & Reasoning: 10 Questions (10 Marks)
4. General Science: 10 Questions (10 Marks)
Detailed RRB Pharmacist Syllabus 2025
The syllabus is comprehensive and covers a broad range of topics to ensure candidates possess the necessary knowledge and skills for the role.
1. Professional Ability (Pharmacy) - 70 Marks
This section carries the highest weightage and focuses on core pharmacy subjects, typically aligning with the curriculum of Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm) and Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) courses. Key areas include:
I. Pharmaceutics:
1. Dosage forms (solids, liquids, semi-solids, parenteral, sterile products)
2. Dispensing pharmacy and prescription handling
3. Pharmacopeias and official preparations
4. Pharmaceutical calculations
5. Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS)
6. Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics
II. Pharmaceutical Chemistry:
1. Inorganic Pharmaceutical Chemistry (impurities, limit tests)
2. Organic Pharmaceutical Chemistry (nomenclature, classification, synthesis of drugs)
3. Medicinal Chemistry (drug classification, structure-activity relationship, synthesis of important drug categories like CNS agents, cardiovascular agents, antibiotics, etc.)
4. Pharmaceutical Analysis (principles and applications of analytical techniques like titrimetry, gravimetry, spectroscopy)
III. Pharmacology:
1. General Pharmacology (routes of drug administration, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, mechanism of action, adverse drug reactions, drug interactions)
2. Classification of drugs based on their action on various systems (e.g., Autonomic Nervous System, Central Nervous System, Cardiovascular System, Renal System, Endocrine System)
3. Chemotherapy (antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, anticancer drugs)
IV. Pharmacognosy:
1. Sources of crude drugs (biological, geographical, cultivation, collection)
2. Methods of extraction and isolation of active constituents
3. Study of specific crude drugs (e.g., glycosides, alkaloids, volatile oils, resins, tannins)
4. Herbal drug standardization and quality control
V. Hospital & Clinical Pharmacy:
1. Hospital pharmacy organization and management
2. Hospital drug distribution systems (IPD, OPD)
3. Drug interactions and adverse drug reactions monitoring
4. Patient counseling and medication adherence
5. Drug information services
6. Therapeutic drug monitoring
VI. Pharmacy Practice & Jurisprudence:
1. Pharmacy Act, 1948
2. Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules 1945
3. Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985
4. Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, Poisons Act, etc.
5. Code of Pharmaceutical Ethics
6. Community Pharmacy and professional responsibilities
VII.Human Anatomy & Physiology (HAP):
1. Detailed study of all organ systems (Skeletal, Muscular, Digestive, Respiratory, Circulatory, Nervous, Excretory, Endocrine, Reproductive, Lymphatic) and their functions.
VIII. Microbiology & Biotechnology:
1. Sterilization and disinfection techniques
2. Immunology (types of immunity, vaccines)
3. Culture media and microbial testing
4. Basic concepts of biotechnology and genetic engineering relevant to pharmacy.
IX. Biochemistry:
1. Biomolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, vitamins)
2. Enzymes
3. Basic metabolic pathways
X. Other Topics: Quality Assurance, Pharmaceutical Engineering (basic concepts), Pharmaceutical Management.
2. General Awareness - 10 Marks
This section tests a candidate's general knowledge and current affairs.
1. Current Affairs (National and International events of the past 6-12 months)
2. Indian Geography, Culture, and History of India (including the freedom struggle)
3. Indian Polity and Constitution
4. Indian Economy
5. Environmental issues concerning India and the World
6. Sports, Awards, Books & Authors
7. General scientific and technological developments
8. Basic knowledge about Indian Railways
3. General Arithmetic, General Intelligence & Reasoning - 10 Marks
This section assesses quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning skills.
I. General Arithmetic: Number Systems, BODMAS, Decimals, Fractions, LCM and HCF, Ratio and Proportion, Percentages, Mensuration, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Simple and Compound Interest, Profit and Loss, Algebra (basic), Geometry (basic), Trigonometry (basic), Elementary Statistics, Square Root, Age Calculations, Calendar & Clock, Pipes & Cistern.
II. General Intelligence & Reasoning: Analogies, Alphabetical and Number Series, Coding-Decoding, Mathematical Operations, Relationships (Blood Relations), Syllogism, Jumbling, Venn Diagrams, Data Interpretation and Sufficiency, Conclusions and Decision Making, Similarities and Differences, Analytical Reasoning, Classification, Directions, Statement – Arguments and Assumptions.
4. General Science - 10 Marks
This section covers fundamental concepts from Physics, Chemistry, and Life Sciences up to the 10th standard (CBSE syllabus) level.
I. Physics: Motion, Force, Energy, Light, Electricity, Magnetism, Sound.
II. Chemistry: States of Matter, Atoms and Molecules, Chemical Reactions, Acids, Bases & Salts, Carbon & its compounds, Metals & Non-metals.
III. Life Sciences (Biology): Human Body and Diseases, Nutrition, Plant Biology, Animal Kingdom, Reproduction, Genetics, Environment, Health and Hygiene.
Preparation Tips:
1. Focus on Professional Ability: Since it accounts for 70% of the marks, allocate significant time to thoroughly revise all pharmacy subjects.
2. Refer to Standard Textbooks: Use your D.Pharm/B.Pharm textbooks for in-depth understanding of professional subjects.
3. Practice MCQs: Solve a large number of multiple-choice questions from all sections to improve speed and accuracy.
4. Previous Year Papers: Analyze previous year's RRB Pharmacist and other paramedical exam papers to understand the question patterns and important topics.
5. Current Affairs: Stay updated with national and international news, especially related to health, science, and technology.
6. Mock Tests: Regularly attempt full-length mock tests to simulate exam conditions and identify weak areas.
By diligently covering these syllabus topics and practicing regularly, candidates can significantly enhance their chances of cracking the RRB Pharmacist Recruitment 2025. Always refer to the official RRB notification for any minor changes or updates to the syllabus.
RRB Pharmacist Exam Pattern 2025: At a Glance
The RRB Pharmacist CBT typically follows a standardized pattern, designed to assess both professional knowledge and general aptitude.
1. Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
2. Total Questions: 100
3. Total Marks: 100
4. Duration: 90 minutes (120 minutes for PwBD candidates with a scribe)
5. Type of Questions: Objective Type Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
6. Marking Scheme: 1 mark awarded for each correct answer.
7. Negative Marking: 1/3rd of the marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer. There is no penalty for unanswered questions.
The exam is divided into four main sections:
1. Professional Ability (Pharmacy): 70 Questions (70 Marks)
2. General Awareness: 10 Questions (10 Marks)
3. General Arithmetic, General Intelligence & Reasoning: 10 Questions (10 Marks)
4. General Science: 10 Questions (10 Marks)
Detailed RRB Pharmacist Syllabus 2025
The syllabus is comprehensive and covers a broad range of topics to ensure candidates possess the necessary knowledge and skills for the role.
1. Professional Ability (Pharmacy) - 70 Marks
This section carries the highest weightage and focuses on core pharmacy subjects, typically aligning with the curriculum of Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm) and Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) courses. Key areas include:
I. Pharmaceutics:
1. Dosage forms (solids, liquids, semi-solids, parenteral, sterile products)
2. Dispensing pharmacy and prescription handling
3. Pharmacopeias and official preparations
4. Pharmaceutical calculations
5. Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS)
6. Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics
II. Pharmaceutical Chemistry:
1. Inorganic Pharmaceutical Chemistry (impurities, limit tests)
2. Organic Pharmaceutical Chemistry (nomenclature, classification, synthesis of drugs)
3. Medicinal Chemistry (drug classification, structure-activity relationship, synthesis of important drug categories like CNS agents, cardiovascular agents, antibiotics, etc.)
4. Pharmaceutical Analysis (principles and applications of analytical techniques like titrimetry, gravimetry, spectroscopy)
III. Pharmacology:
1. General Pharmacology (routes of drug administration, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, mechanism of action, adverse drug reactions, drug interactions)
2. Classification of drugs based on their action on various systems (e.g., Autonomic Nervous System, Central Nervous System, Cardiovascular System, Renal System, Endocrine System)
3. Chemotherapy (antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, anticancer drugs)
IV. Pharmacognosy:
1. Sources of crude drugs (biological, geographical, cultivation, collection)
2. Methods of extraction and isolation of active constituents
3. Study of specific crude drugs (e.g., glycosides, alkaloids, volatile oils, resins, tannins)
4. Herbal drug standardization and quality control
V. Hospital & Clinical Pharmacy:
1. Hospital pharmacy organization and management
2. Hospital drug distribution systems (IPD, OPD)
3. Drug interactions and adverse drug reactions monitoring
4. Patient counseling and medication adherence
5. Drug information services
6. Therapeutic drug monitoring
VI. Pharmacy Practice & Jurisprudence:
1. Pharmacy Act, 1948
2. Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules 1945
3. Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985
4. Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, Poisons Act, etc.
5. Code of Pharmaceutical Ethics
6. Community Pharmacy and professional responsibilities
VII.Human Anatomy & Physiology (HAP):
1. Detailed study of all organ systems (Skeletal, Muscular, Digestive, Respiratory, Circulatory, Nervous, Excretory, Endocrine, Reproductive, Lymphatic) and their functions.
VIII. Microbiology & Biotechnology:
1. Sterilization and disinfection techniques
2. Immunology (types of immunity, vaccines)
3. Culture media and microbial testing
4. Basic concepts of biotechnology and genetic engineering relevant to pharmacy.
IX. Biochemistry:
1. Biomolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, vitamins)
2. Enzymes
3. Basic metabolic pathways
X. Other Topics: Quality Assurance, Pharmaceutical Engineering (basic concepts), Pharmaceutical Management.
2. General Awareness - 10 Marks
This section tests a candidate's general knowledge and current affairs.
1. Current Affairs (National and International events of the past 6-12 months)
2. Indian Geography, Culture, and History of India (including the freedom struggle)
3. Indian Polity and Constitution
4. Indian Economy
5. Environmental issues concerning India and the World
6. Sports, Awards, Books & Authors
7. General scientific and technological developments
8. Basic knowledge about Indian Railways
3. General Arithmetic, General Intelligence & Reasoning - 10 Marks
This section assesses quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning skills.
I. General Arithmetic: Number Systems, BODMAS, Decimals, Fractions, LCM and HCF, Ratio and Proportion, Percentages, Mensuration, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Simple and Compound Interest, Profit and Loss, Algebra (basic), Geometry (basic), Trigonometry (basic), Elementary Statistics, Square Root, Age Calculations, Calendar & Clock, Pipes & Cistern.
II. General Intelligence & Reasoning: Analogies, Alphabetical and Number Series, Coding-Decoding, Mathematical Operations, Relationships (Blood Relations), Syllogism, Jumbling, Venn Diagrams, Data Interpretation and Sufficiency, Conclusions and Decision Making, Similarities and Differences, Analytical Reasoning, Classification, Directions, Statement – Arguments and Assumptions.
4. General Science - 10 Marks
This section covers fundamental concepts from Physics, Chemistry, and Life Sciences up to the 10th standard (CBSE syllabus) level.
I. Physics: Motion, Force, Energy, Light, Electricity, Magnetism, Sound.
II. Chemistry: States of Matter, Atoms and Molecules, Chemical Reactions, Acids, Bases & Salts, Carbon & its compounds, Metals & Non-metals.
III. Life Sciences (Biology): Human Body and Diseases, Nutrition, Plant Biology, Animal Kingdom, Reproduction, Genetics, Environment, Health and Hygiene.
Preparation Tips:
1. Focus on Professional Ability: Since it accounts for 70% of the marks, allocate significant time to thoroughly revise all pharmacy subjects.
2. Refer to Standard Textbooks: Use your D.Pharm/B.Pharm textbooks for in-depth understanding of professional subjects.
3. Practice MCQs: Solve a large number of multiple-choice questions from all sections to improve speed and accuracy.
4. Previous Year Papers: Analyze previous year's RRB Pharmacist and other paramedical exam papers to understand the question patterns and important topics.
5. Current Affairs: Stay updated with national and international news, especially related to health, science, and technology.
6. Mock Tests: Regularly attempt full-length mock tests to simulate exam conditions and identify weak areas.
By diligently covering these syllabus topics and practicing regularly, candidates can significantly enhance their chances of cracking the RRB Pharmacist Recruitment 2025. Always refer to the official RRB notification for any minor changes or updates to the syllabus.
Related Exam
Related Posts
NewDistrict Panchayat Bastar Gram Panchayat Secretary Recruitment 2026 for 70 Posts
On 19th October 2026 , Time : 17:10:49 in [Recruitment - Vacancy]
District Panchayat Bastar, Jagdalpur for 70 posts under Gram Panchayat Secretary Posts. District Panchayat Bastar Gram Panchayat Secretary has been re… Read more ....
On 19th October 2026 , Time : 17:10:49 in [Recruitment - Vacancy]
District Panchayat Bastar, Jagdalpur for 70 posts under Gram Panchayat Secretary Posts. District Panchayat Bastar Gram Panchayat Secretary has been re… Read more ....
NewDLSA Jalore Para Legal Volunteer Recruitment 2026 for 26 Posts
On 19th October 2026 , Time : 16:32:47 in [Recruitment - Vacancy]
District Legal Services Authority Jalore (DLSA Jalore) for 26 posts under Jalore Para Legal Volunteer Posts. DLSA Jalore Para Legal Volunteer has been… Read more ....
On 19th October 2026 , Time : 16:32:47 in [Recruitment - Vacancy]
District Legal Services Authority Jalore (DLSA Jalore) for 26 posts under Jalore Para Legal Volunteer Posts. DLSA Jalore Para Legal Volunteer has been… Read more ....
NewAIIMS Rewari Senior Residents and Other Recruitment 2026 for 24 Posts
On 19th October 2026 , Time : 14:22:38 in [Recruitment - Vacancy]
All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rewari (AIIMS Rewari) for 24 posts under Senior Residents, Senior Demonstrators Posts. AIIMS Rewari Senior Re… Read more ....
On 19th October 2026 , Time : 14:22:38 in [Recruitment - Vacancy]
All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rewari (AIIMS Rewari) for 24 posts under Senior Residents, Senior Demonstrators Posts. AIIMS Rewari Senior Re… Read more ....
NewSGM Hospital Delhi Junior Resident Recruitment 2026 for 12 Posts
On 19th October 2026 , Time : 14:13:22 in [Recruitment - Vacancy]
Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital (SGM Hospital) for 12 posts under Junior Resident Posts. SGM Hospital Delhi Junior Resident has been Walk-in Date 22nd… Read more ....
On 19th October 2026 , Time : 14:13:22 in [Recruitment - Vacancy]
Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital (SGM Hospital) for 12 posts under Junior Resident Posts. SGM Hospital Delhi Junior Resident has been Walk-in Date 22nd… Read more ....
About Author
 | Khushi Singh |