Drugs: Between Science and Practice
Dr. Yagub Salem Saleh
Medications are a cornerstone of modern healthcare, serving as the most common means of treating diseases, preventing complications, and improving quality of life. Since the discovery of penicillin in the 20th century, pharmacological science has evolved dramatically encompassing targeted drug design, gene modulation, and personalized therapies based on individual genetic profiles.
Definition and Functions of Drugs
A drug is a chemical or biological substance used to alter physiological or pathological functions in the body. Drugs vary in their mechanisms of action—some stimulate or inhibit specific receptors, others interact with enzymes, and some enhance or suppress immune responses.
Rational Drug Use
Optimal drug use requires precise knowledge of dosage, route of administration, drug interactions, and potential side effects. Continuous evaluation of efficacy and safety is an integral part of modern pharmaceutical and clinical practice.
Future Challenges
With the rise of chronic diseases and antibiotic resistance, the pharmaceutical sector faces challenges that demand integration between scientific research and clinical application. Universities play a vital role in preparing professionals capable of understanding pharmacology deeply and contributing to the development of innovative and safe therapies.