ABSTRACT

Get a fresh perspective on the day-to-day use of medicine!

A Social History of Medicines in the Twentieth Century explores the most perplexing issues concerning the uses of prescriptions and other medicines on both sides of the Atlantic. The book equips you with a thorough understanding of the everyday use of medicine in the United States, Canada, and Britain, concentrating on its recent past. Dr. John K. Crellin, author of several influential books on the history of medicine and pharmacy, addresses vital topics such as: the emergence of prescription-only medicines; gate-keeping roles for pharmacists; the role of the drugstore; and the rise of alternative medicines.

A Social History of Medicines in the Twentieth Century adds the historical perspective missing from most medical and pharmaceutical literature about trends in the day-to-day use of medicines in society. The book is essential reading for anyone taking regular medication, either as self-care or by a physician’s prescription. Topics discussed include the non-scientific factors that validate medicines, the relevance of the control of narcotics, marketing strategies used by the pharmaceutical industry, the changing authority of physicians and pharmacists, over-the-counter medicines, tonics and sedatives, and patient compliance—and non-compliance.

A Social History of Medicines in the Twentieth Century also addresses:

  • medicines for weakness (“health” foods, fortifiers, digestives/laxatives)
  • poison and pharmacy legislation
  • placebos
  • tranquilizers and antidepressants
  • hormones
  • side-effects
  • psychoactive medications
  • herbal medicines
  • a brief history of the use of medicines from the 17th to 19th centuries
  • suggestions for future policies
  • and much more!
A Social History of Medicines in the Twentieth Century is equally vital as a professional resource for physicians, pharmacists, and health care administrators, as a classroom guide for academics working in the medical and pharmaceutical fields, and as a resource for patients.

chapter Chapter 1|29 pages

The Big Canvas: Issues and Context

chapter Chapter 2|20 pages

Prelude: Seventeenth to Nineteenth Centuries

Fresh Drugs, Medicines, &C. &C

chapter Chapter 3|43 pages

Medicines for Weakness: 1900 to c. 1950

chapter Chapter 4|48 pages

Authority and Gatekeeping: 1900 to c. 1950

chapter Chapter 5|47 pages

Certainty? Maybe, Maybe Not: 1950 to 2000

chapter Chapter 6|51 pages

Hope Amid Uncertainty: 1950 to 2000

chapter |4 pages

Epilogue

Do We Need a “New” Therapeutics?