Painkillers: History Science and Issues (Story of a Drug)

This accessible easy-to-read book provides readers with different perspectives on the subject of painkillers examining their history production uses and dangers.Many different drugs are effectively used as painkillers―substances that greatly improve the quality of life for those who suffer from temporary or recurring pain. This book presents an in-depth overview of opiates opioids and other painkilling substances such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that have been in use from ancient times up to the contemporary era. It also addresses the risks of painkiller use their misuse and potential overdose concerns.The latest in the Story of a Drug series and written by a subject expert who has published widely on drug use and pharmacology this book presents a brief review of the science of how different painkiller drugs work before covering these substances respective effects and applications; the issues regarding the production distribution and regulation of painkiller drugs; and research findings on painkiller use abuse patterns addiction and policy issues. The easy-to-understand text presents scientifically accurate information that enables readers to better understand the key role of painkillers in our 21st-century world.Documents the risks of painkiller use and explores the various issues centered around the production distribution and regulation of painkiller medicationsExamines painkillers from a variety of perspectives including medical historical economic and socialIncludes primary source documents such as guidelines policy documents and study findings on the topics covered that provide readers with more in-depth information and help students hone their critical thinking and analytical skillsExamines the social dimensions of the use and abuse of painkiller drugs and considers the future of this particular type of drugs