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 agentsDiureticsAnti-diabetic drugsAnticonvulsant drugsDrugs for Parkinson's diseaseAntihistamines and antiserotoninsCytokines and immunomodulatorsNon-opioid analgesics and anti-inflammatory agentsAntibacterial agentsAntiviral agentsDrugs used in reproductive endocrinologySystemic drugs for skin diseasesTopical liposome drugsTopical glucocorticoids