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Pharmacological Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pharmacological

[ˌfɑːrməkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

medical treatment

Relating to the study of drugs and their effects on the body.

Synonyms

medicinal, therapeutic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pharmacological

This term is mainly used in the field of science and medicine to refer specifically to the properties and study of drugs and their effects on the human body.

  • The pharmacological research indicated that the new drug could reduce symptoms in patients by 50%.
  • Understanding the pharmacological interactions between different medications is crucial for safe treatment.
medicinal

This word is generally used to describe something related to healing or medical treatment, especially when talking about herbs, plants, or other natural substances. It can also refer to the therapeutic properties of a substance.

  • Ginger has been known for its medicinal properties for centuries.
  • The medicinal benefits of this plant include pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
therapeutic

This term is commonly used to describe activities, treatments, or practices that have a healing effect or contribute to someone's well-being, not necessarily limited to drugs. It can be used in both medical and casual settings.

  • Many people find gardening to be very therapeutic.
  • Physical therapy has a lot of therapeutic benefits for patients recovering from surgery.

Examples of usage

  • Pharmacological research is essential for developing new medications.
  • Patients should be aware of the pharmacological side effects of the prescribed drugs.
Context #2 | Adjective

scientific research

Involving the use of drugs to understand biological processes or treat diseases.

Synonyms

drug-related, pharmaceutic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pharmacological

Use when discussing the scientific study of drugs and their effects on living organisms. Often found in academic or professional settings.

  • The pharmacological properties of the new medicine are still being researched.
  • She is studying pharmacological sciences to become a researcher.
drug-related

Use when talking about matters linked to drugs in a broad sense, often including social and legal issues. It can have a negative connotation, particularly when referring to illegal drugs.

  • The city has seen an increase in drug-related crimes.
  • They are launching a campaign to raise awareness about drug-related health risks.
pharmaceutic

Use when referring to the preparation, dispensing, and proper use of medication. It's often found in the context of the pharmaceutical industry or professional pharmacy practice.

  • He works in the pharmaceutic department of a large hospital.
  • The company's new pharmaceutic product is expected to hit the market next year.

Examples of usage

  • The pharmacological approach to studying cancer has shown promising results.
  • Pharmacological interventions have revolutionized the field of neuroscience.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History of Medicine

  • In the 19th century, pharmacology emerged as a distinct scientific field, leading to the development of modern medicine.
  • Key advancements in pharmacology include the discovery of penicillin in 1928, revolutionizing antibiotic treatments.

Pop Culture

  • Pharmacology often features in movies and TV shows, depicting how drugs are created and tested.
  • Popular characters, like those in medical dramas, frequently grapple with the effects and ethics of pharmacological treatments.

Science

  • Pharmacology delves into both the therapeutic and toxic effects of drugs on biological systems.
  • It encompasses various subdivisions, including clinical pharmacology, the study of how drugs work in humans.

Psychology

  • Pharmacological treatments are essential in psychology, helping manage conditions like depression and anxiety.
  • The effects of certain medications can vary widely among individuals, demonstrating the complexity of the human body.

Origin of 'pharmacological'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'pharmakon', meaning 'drug' or 'medicine'.
  • In ancient Greece, healers often prepared medicines using herbs and plants, leading to early pharmacological practices.

The word 'pharmacological' originates from the Greek word 'pharmakon', meaning 'drug' or 'medicine', combined with 'logos', which translates to 'study of'. The term has been used since the mid-19th century to describe the scientific study of drugs and their effects.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,118, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.