Pharmacology for Physical Therapists

This core textbook in pharmacology presents basic pharmacologic principles along with the mechanism of action and side effects of drugs commonly seen in physical therapy practice. Chapters are organized using a systems approach with each section beginning with the pathophysiology of disease and continuing with a discussion of the drug groups used for treatment. Sections end with a discussion about how drugs affect physical therapy intervention and how physical therapy may affect drug effectiveness. Adverse drug reactions are reviewed and the therapist is then counseled on the appropriate emergency or non-emergency intervention necessary. The last two chapters of the book provide an in-depth discussion regarding the medication/exercise response as it pertains to cardiopulmonary illnesses, oncology, and diabetes.