What
is Pharmacology and Toxicology?
- The disciplines of pharmacology and
toxicology are the study of what happens to various chemicals
or drugs once they enter the body, how these chemicals affect
normal organ function, how they may be used to prevent,
control or cure various diseases (abnormal organ function),
and what the potentially harmful effects of these drugs
may be on the human body. Thus, pharmacologists and toxicologists
determine the immediate and long-term effects of both naturally
occurring chemicals and synthetic chemicals on human physiology
and the health of individuals.
- Pharmacologists are continually searching
for new or more specific methods to prevent or treat diseases
and improve the quality of life. Much research in pharmacology
focuses on understanding the mechanisms of drug absorption,
how it distributes among body tissues, what products are
formed by its breakdown in the body, and how efficiently
and in what form it is removed from the body.
- Toxicology is the study of poisonous
or injurious effects of chemicals or drugs on living organisms.
Research in toxicology identifies the sites and mechanisms
of potential toxic reactions induced by the chemical or
drug. Toxicologists also analyze the effects of environmental
conditions, drugs, cosmetics, agricultural chemicals, food
ingredients, and many other substances. Forensic toxicologists
use DNA fingerprinting, chemical analysis, and trace or
other evidence of a criminal nature and present their findings
for public debate and court arguments.
- Pharmacologists and toxicologists
work together to address questions regarding the benefits
and risks associated with exposure to specific chemicals
or drugs in the environment, or with drugs proposed to prevent
or treat specific health issues. Together they provide medical
practitioners with the understanding needed to establish
preventative measures, to apply appropriate drug treatments
to specific medical conditions, to prevent adverse reactions
to medications or environmental contaminants, and to improve
the health and quality of life for all the members of our
society.
Pharmacology and Toxicology Information Page
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