Toxicology

Science of Poison

Study of the adverse effects of xenobiotics

A scroll containing information pertaining to many recognized poisons

Speaks of poison arrow

Added a number of poisons and clinical toxicology principles pertaining to bioavailability in therapy and overdosage

Introduced numerous references to poisonous plants in De Historia Plantarum

Made the first attempt at classifying poisons in his book De Materia Medica

Ingested 36 ingredients as protection against assassination
• Use of the word “mithridatic” as antidote or protective mixture

Issued the Lex Cornelia, the first law against poisoning and became a regulatory statute

Described the subject of bioavailability noting that milk, butter and cream could delay intestinal absorption

Tested toxic concoctions an noting the following
· Rapidity of toxic response (onset of action)
. Effectiveness of the compound (potency)
. Degree of response of the parts of the body (specificity of the site of action)
. Complaints of the victim (clinical sign and symptoms)