Drugs and drug targets -- an overview -- Drug targets : structure and function -- Protein structure and function -- Enzymes: structure and function -- Receptors: structure and function -- Receptors and signal transduction -- Nucleic acids: structure and function -- Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics -- Enzymes as drug targets -- Receptors as drug targets -- Nucleic acids as drug targets -- Miscellaneous drug targets -- Pharmacokinetics and related topics -- Statins -- Drug discovery, design, and development -- Drug discovery: finding a lead -- Drug design: optimizing target interactions -- Drug design: optimizing access to the target -- Getting the drug to market -- The design of ACE inhibitors -- Artemisinin and related antimalarial drugs -- The design of oxamniquine -- Tools of the trade -- Combinatorial synthesis -- Computers in medicinal chemistry -- Quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR) -- De novo design of a thymidylate synthase inhibitor -- Selected topics in medicinal chemistry -- Antibacterial agents -- Antiviral agents -- Anticancer agents -- Cholinergics, anticholinergics, and anticholinesterases -- Drugs acting on the adrenergic nervous system -- Opioid analgesics -- Antiulcer agents -- Steroidal anti-inflammatory agents -- Design of a novel antidepressant.

An Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry is the leading text for university courses on this subject. Renowned for being a textbook loved equally by both students and lecturers, it presents complete coverage in an accessible and engaging style. The text begins with the essential biochemistry on which an understanding of medicinal chemistry is built, introducing the structure and function of important drug targets. It then explores how drugs interact with the body and the consequences of those reactions. There is a section on general principles and strategies involved in discovering and designing new drugs, and another on useful 'tools of the trade'. The text ends with a contemporary look at specific topics within medicinal chemistry, for example, antiviral and anticancer agents; cholinergics and anticholinesterases; and antiulcer agents. Learning features throughout An Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry help to unlock this fascinating subject. A glossary helps to familiarise the language of medicinal chemistry. Boxes present in-depth material and explore how concepts are applied in practice. Key points summarise sections within chapters, providing a basis for revision, and questions at the end of chapters and on the accompanying Online Resource Centre allow the reader to test their understanding and develop molecular modelling skills.