Chemistry of Drugs

Drug development and research offer some of the most challenging and exciting research in the field of chemistry. ""Chemistry of Drugs"" provides an introduction to the most common processes by which chemists design and develop drugs today. It describes the chemical principles on which those processes are based, along with an overview of the applications and hazards associated with a variety of drugs available both legally and illegally.Coverage also includes attempts to find and develop new natural products for use as drugs; the potential for curing diseases, such as cancer; the growing field of biotechnology; and combinational chemistry, a method of producing, evaluating, and developing new chemical compounds with possible value as drugs. Designer drugs are also discussed, as well as important social, economic, and political issues related to the development and use of drugs. Biographical information on many influential figures involved in the advancement of this field throughout history completes this enlightening volume.