Overview of the Diploma Theses of Pharmacy Candidates at Vytautas Magnus University

Abstract

Background: At all times, pharmacy students not only studied theoretical materials but also conducted various research studies. At Vytautas Magnus University, pharmacy students (pharmacy candidates) who studied between 1930 and 1940 had to pass exams and write a thesis to obtain the title of chemist-pharmacist [1]. Today, pharmacy students apply the latest analytical methodologies when preparing their master's thesis. However, it is important to examine which analytical methods were mentioned in the pre-war pharmacy candidates' theses. Aim: To find out the topics and analytical methods used in pharmacy candidates' theses from 1930 to 1940. Methods: A review of pharmacy candidates' theses stored at the Museum of the History of Lithuanian Medicine and Pharmacy of LSMU. Results: Pharmacy candidates conducted research on pharmaceutical preparations and household products. It was found that complex pharmaceutical preparations (ointments, powders, solutions), food products (sour cream, bread, apples, mineral water, alcoholic beverages), as well as cleaning agents, smoking tobacco, and church candles were analyzed. Students carried out synthesis work (extraction of trimethylamine from herring brine) and the isolation of active substances from biological samples (the thyroid gland, blood, and liver of animals). It was found that qualitative and quantitative methods of chemical analysis were used, but no instrumental methods were described. The theses documented the use of microscopic, volumetric, and gravimetric analysis methods; as well as a detailed process of sample preparation and the calculation of results. Test samples were analyzed for ash content, moisture, organic compounds (sugar, proteins, nicotine, pyridine, fusel oils, ethyl and methyl alcohols), as well as inorganic compounds and elements (carbonates, ammonium, iron, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, etc.). Conclusion: Between 1930 and 1940, pharmacy candidates explored a variety of topics, and their theses were based on experimental research, demonstrating the broad scope expected of a chemist-pharmacist.