Making Medicine: Surprising Stories from the History of Drug Discovery

Scientists design medicine by discovering carbon and hydrogen mixtures, which can improve lives and become million- and billion-dollar makers for pharmaceutical companies. Keith Veronese's book "Making Medicine: Surprising Stories from the History of Drug Discovery" examines eighteen different molecules and their unlikely discovery or second discovery.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Prometheus Books

Scientists play a crucial role in designing the medicine we use to improve our lives. Many of these life-saving medications are the result of happy accidents or overlooked mixtures of carbon and hydrogen. In his book, "Making Medicine: Surprising Stories from the History of Drug Discovery," author Keith Veronese explores eighteen different molecules and their unlikely journey to becoming invaluable medications. From the famous discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming to lesser-known stories like the development of quinine from the bark of the cinchona tree, Veronese reveals the "how" and the "who" behind these pharmaceutical breakthroughs.

The book covers a wide range of topics, including cancer-fighting therapies, over-the-counter pain relievers, hair regrowth creams, and antidepressants. Readers will likely find a personal connection to at least one of these molecules.

Like all discoveries made by mankind, the stories behind these breakthroughs and their introduction to the world are often messy, sometimes controversial, and always human. For example, digoxin, a medication prescribed to help heart efficiency, can be fatal in higher doses. Charles Cullen, a nurse who used digoxin to kill over forty patients, is a chilling reminder of the risks associated with pharmaceutical discovery.

"Making Medicine" also provides an insightful look into modern pharmaceutical discovery processes. It highlights the serendipitous nature of these discoveries and the challenges scientists face in developing safe and effective medications. The book also discusses how these miracle molecules interact with the human body to produce the desired results.

Overall, "Making Medicine" is a fascinating and informative book that sheds light on the incredible journey of drug discovery. It provides a deeper understanding of the science behind these life-saving medications and the human stories that have shaped their development. Whether you are a healthcare professional, a patient, or simply interested in the history of medicine, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 503g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781633887534