Drugs & Medications

See the molecular structures of common drugs, including drugs of abuse. Photos of the drugs themselves are also included.

Would you know drug paraphernalia if you saw it? This is a collection of photos of drug paraphernalia.

Learn what anabolic steroids are, how they can enhance athletic performance, and what risks are associated with using performance enhancing drugs.

Learn how to synthesize aspirin, acetylsalicylic acid, from salicyclic acid. Get information about the history of aspirin, the effects of salicylates, and see the structures of the reactants.

Learn about the chemical and biological properties of caffeine, the methylxanthine stimulant found in coffee and other foods.

Get basic information about chemical weapons and learn what you can do to protect yourself in the event of a chemical attack.

Learn what cocaine or coke is, why people take cocaine, how it's made, and what risks are associated with using cocaine.

Learn what crack cocaine is, why people take crack, how it's made, and what risks are associated with using crack cocaine.

Learn what crystal meth is, why people take crystal meth, how it's made, and what risks are associated with using methamphetamine.

Learn about the insect repellent called DEET. See its chemical structure, find out how it works, get information about the risks of using DEET, and find out how to reduce your need for bug spray.

This is a table listing many of the pharmaceuticals that are derived from plants, including the names of the drugs, their actions, plant sources, and the common names of the plants.

A new study conducted by the CDC indicates that getting the flu vaccine doesn't protect you against cold, flu-like illness, or even the flu. Surprised? Here are some reasons why the vaccine may not work.

Dr. Helmenstine's reasons for opposing the fluoridation of public drinking water.

Fluoride isn't only found in toothpaste and water. There are many everyday sources and several steps you can take to lower your exposure.

This is a list of methods that can be used to remove fluoride from drinking water. There's also a list of methods that do not remove fluoride and suggestions for ways to minimize fluoride exposure. References for the fluoridation controversy are included.

This is a list of common food additives and a description of their uses.

Over 75% of women and a growing percentage of men color their hair. Learn about natural haircolor and find out what happens when you bleach hair or use temporary or permanent haircolor.

A hangover is Nature's way of reminding you that alcohol is not good for your body. Having said that, there are some substances that will reduce the damage or lessen the discomfort.

Lycopene is the red pigment in tomatoes and several fruits. Find out more about how this antioxidant protects against cancer and heart disease.

Learn what marijuana and THC are, why people use marijuana, where it comes from, and what risks are associated with using marijuana.

Looking for a natural alternative to synthetic chemical mosquito repellents? Find out which natural substances repel mosquitoes, how to avoid attracting them, and how to maximize the effectiveness of your repellent.

Radiation pills may be given in the event of nuclear accidents, nuclear attacks or in the course of certain radioactive medical treatments. Here's a look at what radiation pills are and what is in them.

Learn about ricin and RCA, the two potent toxins from the castor bean plant. Information is provided about the action, symptoms, and treatment of ricin and RCA poisoning.

Learn what rohypnol is, why people take rohypnol, how it's made, and what risks are associated with using rohypnol.

See the molecular structures of steroids.

This article discusses bronzers, self-tanning lotions and sprays, tanning accelerators, and pills. Learn how these products work and find out why tans fade.

Find out how sunscreen works, what an SPF rating means, the difference between sunscreen and sunblock, and how to protect yourself from both UV-A and UV-B radiation.

The fluid used to suspend the pigments in tattoo ink is called the carrier. The composition of the liquid is important for making a high-quality ink and also a safe ink.

The fluid used to suspend the pigments in tattoo ink is called the carrier. The composition of the liquid is important for making a high-quality ink and also a safe ink.

There are some risk associated with tattoo ink that are related to ink chemistry. Find out why your tattoo ink might not be as safe as you think.

The primary methylxanthine in chocolate is theobromine, a molecule similar to caffeine. See the structure of theobromine and read about its chemistry, effects on people and animals, and uses. There are links to chocolate history and chemical research, veterinary advice for theobromine poisoning, and related resources.

This is a collection of molecular structures of the vitamins.

Your multivitamin may contain more or less nutrients than you think, plus may include some nasty contaminants.

Learn about the causes of carbon dioxide poisoning, which is also known as hypercapnia or hypercarbia.