Founded in 1852, the American Pharmaceutical Association is the first established and largest professional society of pharmacists within the United States. With more than 60,000 members representing practicing pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, pharmacy students, and pharmacy technicians, APhA aims to assist its members by promoting the interests and enhancing the profession of pharmacy. Delegates of the association meet each year at the annual APhA Meeting & Exposition to discuss and set policies for the profession of pharmacy.

Today, many professional pharmacy organizations trace their roots to APhA.