What is the primary focus of pharmacology?

The primary focus of pharmacology is the study of medications and their effect on the body. This field encompasses understanding how drugs interact with biological systems, including their mechanisms of action, therapeutic effects, side effects, and the ways in which the body processes these substances. Pharmacologists explore the effectiveness of various drugs, how they can be used to treat conditions, and how they impact different bodily systems. This knowledge is crucial for developing safe and effective medications, thereby improving patient care and outcomes.

In contrast, while the study of diseases and their treatments is an important aspect of healthcare, it is more aligned with pathology and treatment methodologies rather than the specific actions of medications. Research on surgical procedures falls under the realm of surgery rather than pharmacology, focusing on invasive interventions rather than pharmacological therapy. Similarly, the evaluation of psychological disorders is primarily related to psychology and psychiatry, with a different focus than that of pharmacology, which is centered exclusively on drugs and their physiological impacts.