Advance Toxicology
Definition
Toxicology is the science of poison and its effects in living organisms.
Clinical toxicology is the study of the toxic or adverse effects of agents, such as drugs and chemicals, in the body. It focuses on diseases associated with short-term and long-term exposure to various toxic chemicals and coincides with other sciences such as biochemistry, pharmacology, and pathology.
Clinical Toxicologists
Individuals who specialize in clinical toxicology are called clinical toxicologists. Their work focuses on:
- Identification, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions resulting from exposure to harmful agents.
- Study of toxic effects of various drugs in the body.
- Treatment and prevention of drug toxicity in the population.
Factors Influencing Toxic Effects
- Dose: Most chemicals are harmful when taken in large doses.
- Route of exposure: Ingestion, inhalation, and skin penetration.
- Duration of exposure: Vital factor in determining toxic effects.
Also Read Heavy Metal Intoxication - Short Note
Epidemiology
High numbers of hospital admissions per year are related to poisoning. The most common drugs causing poisoning include:
- Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)
- Salicylate
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Phenothiazine
Scope of Clinical Toxicology
Determination of factors leading to drug overdoses and poisoning:
- Incorrect use of prescribed drugs
- Overprescribing of drugs
- Inattention to drug warnings
- Drug-drug interactions
- Allergic reactions in predisposed individuals
Diagnostic Approach
Drug-related emergencies often require laboratory work:
- Blood tests: Arterial blood gases, urea, electrolytes, glucose, etc.
- Urine test: Frequently performed for toxicology screening.
Also Read Immunopharmacology - Study Notes
New Toxicologic Disciplines
- Toxicogenomics: Combines toxicology with genomics to study how genes and proteins respond to toxic substances.
- Nanotoxicology: Study of toxicology of engineered tiny particles (usually
