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JAMA. 1970;211(7):1177.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text PDF and any section headings.

In his erudite exposition of pharmaceutical revolution, Lasagna¹ ascribes the acceleration of production of useful chemicals to three factors: increased knowledge about diseases and about drug actions (good and bad), and greatly improved facilities for production. The revolution has had profound effects on society, some beneficial, others in the nature of problems.

The good effects are there for all to see. Serious diseases, formerly unmanageable, can now be prevented, cured, or in some measure controlled. The results have been better health and longer life for those members of society for whom the new methods have been available.

Problems have arisen because most potent, useful drugs may cause adverse reactions, some of which are serious or even fatal. Also, the availability of excellent curative and palliative agents has tempted physicians to overtreat or to prescribe before diagnosis is confirmed. Although Lasagna doesn't say so, the latter practice is sometimes necessary . . . [Full Text PDF of this Article]

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