Bright star in clinical pharmacy (5)

I believe the answer is:

alpha

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'bright star' is the definition.
'alpha' can be an answer for 'star' (I've seen this before). I'm not certain of the 'bright' bit.

'in clinical pharmacy' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'ALPHA' can be found hidden inside 'clinical pharmacy'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for alpha that I've seen before include "Brilliant star" , "piece of Greek writing" , "star of utmost brilliance" , "First in order of importance (for a Greek?)" , "- - and Omega" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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