General Principles of Toxicology: A Review for Pharmacists

Course overview

Toxicology has been described in literature for thousands of years. In the year 1230, the word "poison" first appeared in the literature, and was defined as a potion or draught that was prepared with deadly ingredients (Hoffman, 2007). Since then, poisons and toxicology have remained an important part of history. From intentional poisoning-related deaths to the significant increase in deaths related to drug overdoses, toxicology remains a relevant topic in medicine today. This course will review general principles of toxicology as well as toxidromes and agents of toxicity. It includes specific discussion regarding antidotes and treating toxicologic emergencies with a focus on pharmacologic therapy.