Artificial intelligence (AI) in hospital pharmacy: a comprehensive review

Doi: https://doi.org/10.55522/ijti.v4i1.0139

Abstract

This review examines the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical and hospital pharmacy services. A comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar, covering studies up to July 2025, identified research using keywords such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, clinical pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, medication management, and decision support systems. Selected studies discussing AI applications, benefits, challenges, and outcomes were analysed through narrative synthesis. Findings show that AI strengthens pharmacy operations by improving inventory accuracy, reducing medication errors, enhancing dispensing safety, and streamlining drug distribution. Machine learning and decision support tools support therapy selection, predict medication demand, detect drug–drug interactions, and promote personalised care. AI adoption also improves workflow efficiency, reduces administrative tasks, and enhances pharmacist training. Originally developed for complex computational tasks, AI now transforms healthcare through digital record keeping, automation, and diagnostic tools. Its growing use in drug discovery, formulation development, and hospital pharmacy highlights its expanding impact on professional pharmacy practice.