Understanding Pharma: The Professional's Guide To How Pharmaceutical And Biotech Companies Really Work

Book Synopsis: The pharmaceutical industry is extremely complex, and so are the inner workings of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies operating within it. Even the most seasoned industry professionals may find it difficult to understand the activities of, and interdependencies among, all key functions within a pharmaceutical or biotechnology company. Yet this knowledge is crucial when the responsibilities for—or repercussions of—key initiatives ripple across an organization.

Understanding Pharma is a must-read for anyone in the pharma/biotech sector—those new to the industry, industry veterans, and specialized experts working in or serving the industry. Gain an understanding of the inner workings of each functional area in the typical company. Learn the interdependencies among functional areas and how they affect the company's strategic goals. Understand how each functional area impacts the company's financial success.

The Understanding Pharma book and 10-module e-course series have been incorporated into the on-boarding and professional development programs of numerous leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies, as well as university curricula for students preparing for careers in the industry. Two full printings of the first edition—more than 5,000 books—have sold out. This third edition provides key updates to content, including a new Medical Affairs chapter and new content related to the distinctive issues and requirements surrounding biopharmaceuticals. There are also major updates to the Managed Markets and Trade and Distribution chapters. Key data points have been revised throughout the book to maintain currency.

Topics covered in the book include:

• The global scope of the pharmaceutical industry
• Typical pharmaceutical company structure
• Customer groups supply and demand drivers
• Pharmaceutical product lifecycle
• Drug Discovery
• Drug Development
• Business Development
• Marketing
• Sales
• Managed Markets
• Manufacturing
• Distribution

Each function-specific chapter explains:

• The role of that functional area in fulfilling the pharmaceutical company's mission
• The impact of that functional area on company profitability and strategic vision
• Key activities within that functional area

Understanding Pharma is an ideal resource for professionals in a wide variety of careers, including:

• Sales
• Marketing
• Market Research
• Medical Affairs
• Business Development
• Training
• Contract Research
• Medical Education
• Advertising
• Public Relations

Students preparing for careers in the pharmaceutical industry will also find it extremely effective in orienting them to their chosen field, and the industry as a whole. Be sure your team has what it takes to succeed in this competitive environment. Understanding Pharma will provide the practical knowledge they need.

Also be sure to check out the companion book, Lingua Pharma, the first comprehensive glossary of industry-related terms. Understanding Pharma is an introduction to how pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies actually work, from both a scientific and a business standpoint.