The Benefit/Risk Ratio

The use of drugs as remedies for various types of diseases has a long tradition; however, it has only been recently recognized that the value of any given compound must be evaluated in light of its benefit to risk ratio. When prescribing drugs, physicians must look at the big picture of the drug's benefits in relation to its side effects and possible toxicity. The aim of this handbook is to compile data from various authors, providing clinicians with data that will optimize their decision making in selecting effective, low-risk drug treatments. It also provides research workers, including physicians, pharmacists, and basic scientists, with a sound basis for increasing knowledge of the risk/benefit ratios of various drugs.

Includes detailed assessments of the following types of drugs:

Antihypertensive agents

Diuretics

Anti-diabetic drugs

Anticonvulsant drugs

Drugs for Parkinson's disease

Antihistamines and antiserotonins

Cytokines and immunomodulators

Non-opioid analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents

Antibacterial agents

Antiviral agents

Drugs used in reproductive endocrinology

Systemic drugs for skin diseases

Topical liposome drugs

Topical glucocorticoids