In the United States, the first pharmacopoeia was published in December 1820 both in English and in Latin. Later on a National Formulary was also published in addition to U.S.P. (United States Pharmacopoeia). The object of the U.S.P.ws to select from substances the ones which possess medicinal power, converted them into preparation of suitable composition in order to enhance their power to the maximum advantage. The first International Pharmacopoeia was published by the World Health Organization in 1951 (Volume I) and in 1955 (Volume II). The object of this was to provide a uniform list which would avoid the confusion caused by different national standards, strengths and names especially for the use of travelers who might need to use the same prescription in different countries. First Edition of Pharmacopoeia of India Fifth Editi...
The Indian Pharmacopoeia 2007 is presented in three volumes. Volume I contains the general notes, preface, the structure of the IPC, Introduction and general chapters. Volume II deals with the general monographs on drug substances, dosage forms and pharmaceutical aids. Volume III contains monographs on drug substances, dosage forms, pharmaceutical aids, vaccines and immunosera for human use, herbs and herbal products, blood and blood related products, biotechnology products and veterinary products. General chemical tests for identification have been almost eliminated and more specific infrared and ultraviolet spectrophotometric tests have been given. The test for pyrogens involving the use of animals has been virtually eliminated. The test for bacterial endotoxins has been introduced. The test for abnormal toxicity is now confined to certain vaccines. The use of chromatographic methods has been extended in assays to large number of pharmaceutical products. 6. Labeling and storage ...