Intensive Therapy

Of note in this volume is the fact that it is dedicated to the memory of Alfred Gilman. He, along with Louis S. Goodman, wrote the first two editions of this text, and he served as an editor until his death in 1984. He will be missed by all those who knew him. Despite Dr. Gilman's untimely death and the addition of two new editors, Theodore W. Rall and Ferid Murad, the book remains unchanged in its format of presentation. As always, it emphasizes basic pharmacological principles and how these apply to the therapeutic use of a given agent. Each existing section, however, has been updated and revised in order to keep abreast of the constant changes that occur in biomedical science; similarly, new chapters and sections have been added as a result of the growing number of new pharmacological agents available today. Of special note is a new section on the calcium channel blocking agents, a new chapter on hyperlipoprotinemias (written by Nobel laureates Michael Brown and Joseph Goldstein), and revised sections on endorphins, enkephalins, prostaglandins, and benzodiazapines. Aside from the chapters that address the mechanism, pharmacological properties, pharmacokinetics, uses, and toxicities of specific agents, there are also chapters that consider general principles and other aspects of pharmacology. One of the introductory chapters on the principles of therapeutics is quite helpful in gaining an overall perspective, as is also the chapter on pharmacodynamics. The three appendices on prescription writing and patient compliance, design of dosage regimens, and drug interactions also prove to be well worthwhile. As did the previous editions, this work, because of its readable style and comprehensive coverage, will undoubtably become an indispensable addition to the library of most researchers and clinicians. While I maintain that this book is too exhaustive for use as a primary text in a medical school pharmacology course, it is most definitely a valuable reference resource for the student, as well.