Pharmacology is the science that studies the molecular mechanisms of the biological effects of drugs and other chemicals, of synthetic or natural origin, on cells, tissues, and organs.
It is a typically a multidisciplinary science, alongside clinical pharmacology, cardiovascular pharmacology, neuropsychopharmacology, pharmacogenetics and so forth.
What does a pharmacologist do?
A pharmacologist uses knowledge in various scientific fields particularly those of physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology to solve problems associated with drugs, hormones, or other chemicals. The specialist optimizes drug therapies and provides information on the pharmacogenetic markers that can predict the effectiveness or toxicity of a drug, and participates in the activities of pharmacovigilance and pharmacoeconomic to enhance the safety of drugs, and optimize their use to limit costs.
A pharmacologist can also provide a patient with information about what happens to a drug once taken, possible interactions with other medications the patient might be taking, how long the drug stays in the system, and how it is eliminated.
What diseases are treated by a pharmacologist?
A pharmacologist does not focus on a particular disease but rather focuses on the drugs that can be used to treat various diseases. Among the drugs with which the doctor deals most often, include antibiotics, oral anticoagulants, antidepressants, antiepileptic, antiestrogens, antipsychotic, antiretroviral, antiviral, chemotherapeutic, biological, immunosuppressants, and opioid drugs.
A pharmacologist can also study the molecular factors involved in the metabolism and transport of drugs in the system.
What are the procedures used by a pharmacologist?
Among the procedures most used by pharmacologists, included analysis of genetic markers, DNA extraction, and statistical analysis of adverse reactions in order to identify risk factors associated with taking the drug. The specialist also uses chromatographic methods such as HPLC that allows the doctor to study the absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs, and monitor their therapeutic use.
When should a patient visit a pharmacologist?
A patient would visit a specialist or general practitioner, who would then prescribe pharmacological drugs.
