The Action of Medicines in the System

Or, on the mode in which therapeutic agents introduced into the stomach produce their peculiar effects on the animal economyBy Frederick William Headland

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Length10h 27m

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In "The Action of Medicines in the System," Frederick William Headland presents a comprehensive exploration of pharmacology, dissecting the various mechanisms through which medicinal substances interact with the human body. Written in a clear and methodical style, the book melds historical context with scientific rigor, reflecting the period's growing interest in empirical observation intersected with traditional medical practices. Headland's methodical dissection of pharmacodynamics marks a significant contribution to 19th-century medicine, showcasing both the prevailing theories of his time and the early foundations of modern pharmacological principles. Frederick William Headland was a prominent physician and pharmacologist, whose career was deeply influenced by the scientific advancements of the late Victorian era. His medical training and his keen interest in the intersection of chemistry and biology propelled him to address the critical need for a systematic understanding of drug actions, which was instrumental for practitioners striving for empirically-based practices. This work embodies his extensive research efforts and insights into a transformative period of medicine that began to move away from anecdotal practices toward a more evidence-based approach. For medical students, practitioners, and historians alike, "The Action of Medicines in the System" serves as an essential text that bridges the past and present of pharmacology. Headland's blend of observation, theory, and application provides readers with invaluable insights into the role of medicines in healthcare, making this work an indispensable resource for anyone dedicated to understanding the evolution of therapeutics.

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GenreHealth and Wellness

Length10 hrs 27 mins

Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices

FormateBook with Audio

Publish dateSep 5, 2022

LanguageEnglish

1Introduction

2A CLASSIFICATION OF MEDICINES WHICH ACT AFTER ENTERING INTO THE BLOOD, ACCORDING TO THEIR SUPPOSED MODES OF OPERATION.

3INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.

4I. Opinions concerning the ultimate Effect of Medicines, and Classifications founded on this.

5II. Opinions concerning the Local Tendency of Medicines, and Classifications founded upon this.

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6III. Opinions concerning the Mode of Operation of Medicines, and Classifications founded on this.

7ON THE GENERAL MODES OF ACTION OF THERAPEUTIC AGENTS INTRODUCED INTO THE STOMACH.

8Prop. I.—That the great majority of medicines must obtain entry into the blood, or internal fluids of the body, before their action can be manifested.

9Prop. II.—That the great majority of medicines are capable of solution in the gastric or intestinal secretions, and pass without material change, by a process of absorption, through the coats of the stomach and intestines, to enter the capillaries of the Portal system of veins.

10Prop. III.—That those medicines which are completely insoluble in water, and in the gastric and intestinal juices, cannot gain entrance into the circulation.

11Prop. IV.—That some few remedial agents act locally on the mucous surface, either before absorption, or without being absorbed at all. That they are chiefly as follow:—

12Prop. V.—That the medicine, when in the blood, must permeate the mass of the circulation, so far as may be required to reach the parts on which it tends to act.

13Prop. VI.—That while in the blood, the medicine may undergo change, which in some cases may, in others may not, affect its influence. That these changes may be—

14RESTORATIVES.

15CATALYTICS.

16STIMULANTS.

17NARCOTICS.

18SEDATIVES.

19Prop. IX.—That a third class of medicines, called Astringents, act by passing from the blood to muscular fibre, which they excite to contraction.

20Prop. X.—That a fourth class of medicines, called Eliminatives, act by passing out of the blood through the glands, which they excite to the performance of their functions.

21CHAPTER IV.

22GENERAL INDEX.

23FOOTNOTES: