Final answer:
The minimum age to become a pharmacist in the United States is approximately 26 years old, since it includes completing a 4-year doctorate program after undergraduate studies. Pharmacy technicians can start working at a minimum age of 16 to 18 years old, contingent upon state regulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
To pursue a career as a pharmacist, one must achieve a doctorate in pharmacy, which typically requires four years of education after undergraduate studies. Although specific age requirements can vary by state, one must be at least 18 years old to enroll in a pharmacy school, and it generally takes until around the age of 26 to complete all the necessary education, including undergraduate and pharmacy school, and to meet licensure requirements.
For a pharmacy technician, which is a different role that supports pharmacists, the minimum age can be as low as 16 to 18 years old, depending on state laws, and the educational requirements are less stringent, often requiring only a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or certification.
Pharmacists are well-versed in both chemistry and biology to understand the effects of medications and advise on their proper use. As health professionals, pharmacists are found in various settings, including drugstores, hospitals, and other medical facilities, where they provide critical information on drug selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects.