Discoveries in Pharmacological Sciences

Book excerpt: Since 1805 pure, active, therapeutic constituents were isolated and chemically characterized. Parallel to these developments, the science of human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, genetics and pharmacology has advanced. New synthetic drugs were discovered. The chemistry of perfumes and sensory functions including memory were elucidated. The history of fascinating discoveries made by scientists of Nobel repute was documented. Better testing methods were developed. The causes of many diseases were better understood. Drug laws were instituted a century ago. The pharmaceutical industry flourished. The text provides a panoramic view of the understanding of when, where, who, how and why drugs were developed. Educational aspects of teaching pharmacological sciences are reviewed. The historical account will be invaluable to graduate students and creative scientists, who can prepare for the future.