A Manual of Pharmacodynamics (Classic Reprint)

Excerpt from A Manual of Pharmacodynamics

Leaving the Therapeutical part for the present, I would say a few words upon the manner in which I have treated the subject of Pharmacodynamics.

1. My work in no way professes to be a substitute for the 'Materia Medica.' It is rather a guide and companion to it. The pathogeneses of the medicines, given in detail there, are presented here in the way of descriptive outline, of analysis, or (wherever possible) of physiological expression. But reference is always made to the Materia Medica itself as the mine where the treasure, however rough its form, really lies. To indicate the vein where each mineral may be worked, to estimate the value of its yield, to exhibit such of its products as have been obtained and smelted, and especially such as have been applied to use - this has been my work. If there are any who cannot or will not work the mine for themselves, that which they learn from what I show them out of it is at any rate better for them than total ignorance. To most of my readers I hope that the specimens I exhibit will excite a thirst for farther research of their own, rather than a less worthy content with the results of the labour of others.

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