WHAT WE SHOULD LEARN ABOUT DRUGS 71 



because the Latin name is used in prescription writing and the Eng- 

 lish name and synonyms are used in literature. 



2. Source. So far only as some of the most important drugs are 

 concerned. 



3. Characteristics, Of only the most common and easily deter- 

 mined drugs. Form, color, taste, etc. 



4. Composition of the inorganic. So far as the composition 

 would influence its use or compatibility. 



5. Active ingredients of organic preparations: alkaloids, gluco- 

 sides, resins, etc. It is necessary to know upon what a drug depends 

 for action, as well as the source of some of the principles which are 

 used alone. The composition is also important from the standpoint 

 of compatibility. 



6. Solubilities. So far as is concerned in the use of drugs. 



7. Incompatibilities. The incompatibilities that are of impor- 

 tance in prescribing or using the drugs should be known. See in- 

 compatibilities, page 45. 



8. Form in which drugs may be obtained and administered. 

 Preparations and their strengths and doses, especially of the official 

 and more commonly used unofficial preparations. 



9. Physiologic or pharmacological action. Method by which the 

 drug acts. Its action externally and locally, and upon the various 

 systems of the body. 



10. How it is absorbed and hoiv eliminated. 



11. Untoward or side actions. Whether there are any untoward 

 or side actions which must be looked after. 



12. Toxicology. The symptoms and treatment of poisonous 

 doses, antidotes, etc. 



13. Uses or therapeutics. The uses can only be briefly pointed 

 out in materia medica or pharmacology. The details should be 

 worked out in the treatment of disease. 



14. Contraindications. Conditions in which certain drugs are 

 not indicated or in which they might do harm if given. 



15. Administration. In what way, in what form and how often 

 to use for different purposes. 



