Pharmacology and toxicology are two closely related fields that study the effects of chemical substances on living organisms. While pharmacology focuses on the beneficial effects of drugs and therapeutics, toxicology investigates the adverse effects of chemicals, including drugs, environmental pollutants, and other substances.
Here is an overview of pharmacology and toxicology:
Pharmacology:
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Definition: Pharmacology is the study of how chemical substances, known as drugs or therapeutics, interact with living systems to produce therapeutic effects. It explores the mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion), pharmacodynamics (effects on the body), and therapeutic applications of drugs.
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Drug Development: Pharmacology plays a crucial role in drug discovery and development. It involves the identification of potential drug targets, screening and testing of compounds, preclinical studies in animals, and clinical trials in humans to determine safety and efficacy.
Toxicology:
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Definition: Toxicology is the study of the adverse effects of chemical substances on living organisms. It examines the toxic effects, mechanisms of toxicity, dose-response relationships, and factors influencing toxicity.
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Types of Toxicology: Toxicology encompasses several branches, including:
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Environmental Toxicology: Focuses on the effects of pollutants, chemicals, and hazardous substances in the environment on ecosystems and human health.
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Clinical Toxicology: Deals with the diagnosis, management, and treatment of poisoning and toxic effects caused by drugs, chemicals, or other substances.
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Forensic Toxicology: Involves the detection and interpretation of toxic substances in medico-legal investigations, such as determining the cause of death or drug-related crimes.
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