Exploring Artificial Intelligence Integration in Indian Pharmacology: A Survey on Scope, Threats, and Challenges

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming pharmacology by enhancing drug discovery, clinical trials, pharmacovigilance, and medical education. However, concerns about data security, job displacement, and ethical implications hinder its widespread adoption. This study assesses the perception of AI's scope, threats, challenges, and acceptance among pharmacologists in India. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional, survey-based study was conducted among pharmacologists working in academia and the pharmaceutical industry in India between February 2024 and January 2025. A validated self-administered questionnaire was distributed through online platforms, collecting responses on AI awareness, perceived threats, benefits, challenges, and use. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square test. RESULTS: A total of 104 pharmacologists participated, with 64 from academia and 40 from the industry. While 68.26% were familiar with AI tools, industry professionals (82.5%) exhibited higher awareness than academicians (59.37%, P = 0.017). Most respondents recognized AI's significant role in drug discovery (77%), pharmacovigilance (73.07%), and clinical trials (69.23%). Major concerns included job displacement (62.5%), skill loss (63.46%), and algorithmic biases (64.42%). 33.65% pharmacologists never used AI-based tools in their professional careers. This number is significantly higher among academicians as compared to pharma people ( P = 0.03). Limited access to AI tools, expertise, and training (79.8%) and lack of standardized data format/interoperability issues (66.34%) were key barriers to adoption. CONCLUSION: AI is perceived as a valuable tool in pharmacology, but challenges such as skill gaps, ethical concerns, and infrastructural limitations hinder its adoption. Addressing these barriers through targeted training, regulatory frameworks, and interdisciplinary collaborations will be crucial for AI's seamless integration into the Indian pharmacology sector.

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