Overview of drugs -substance intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, relief, treatment, or prevention of disease or intended to affect the structure or function of the body -any chemical substance that affects the body and its processes -2 categories: prescription; nonprescription -chemical name: describe the atomic or molecular structure -generic name: name for drug of a particular class, worldwide use -trade name: brand name Example: Antihyperglycemic (drug class), Acarbose (generic name), Precose (trade/brand name) Drug design and development -structure is usually modified to optimize: selectivity: ability to target intended site affinity: ability to remain attached to the site potency: strength efficacy: effectiveness safety -Preclinical testing: To determine the chemical and physical characteristics of the drug and to assess the safety and effects of the drug in living organism -Phase I: To establish basic safety and blood levels achieved with different doses of