Description
Book Synopsis
We are all drugs users. From caffeine to cocaine and Prozac to penicillin, drugs play an important part in our lives, both medically and recreationally. In clear and accessible language for the popular science reader, Susan Aldridge describes the science of how drugs work.
Trade Review
'… this book flows like a river, uncovering the delicate dance between drugs and health and filling in the background … Magic Molecules really hits the spot.' Ben Crystall, New Scientist
'I wish that this book had been available a few years ago … Magic Molecules presents some of the great stories about past and present drug discovery and development. It provides accessible information about the drugs that we take and the fascinating science behind them, with all of the hype and confusion cut away. Everyone will find something gripping in this book.' Martin Westwell, The Times Higher Education Supplement
'… very informative and well written … this book is well worth reading and deserves to reach a wide audience.' Rob Kingston, Chemistry in Britain
'… an elegant book … an admirable book. One can sense the enjoyment of the author in writing it. I wonder what she was on.' Paul Wymer, Chemistry and Industry
Table of Contents
List of illustrations; Acknowledgements; Introduction; 1. How drugs work; 2. From penicillin to Prozac: introducing pharmaceutical drugs; 3. Fighting infection; 4. The hormonal revolution; 5. Cardiovascular drugs: protecting the heart and brain; 6. The problem of pain; 7. The cancer challenge; 8. Drugs for the mind; 9. Drugs of recreation and addiction; 10. Natural alternatives: vitamins, minerals and herbs; 11. In the pipeline: gene-based medicine; Bibliography; Index.
