by Andrew Rowland PhD BSc (Hons), Shaunagh Darroch BSc MPharm GradCertAcaPrac, Mary Bushell BPharm (Hons) GCLTHE PhD, Voula Tsoutsikos PhD MEd (HighEd) BAppSc (Hons)

Pharmacology for Health Professionals provides a clinically grounded introduction to pharmacology, guiding students from foundational principles through to in-depth exploration of drug actions across major body systems and their application in treating common pathological conditions in the Australian and New Zealand context.

Designed for nursing, pharmacy and allied health students, this trusted text takes an integrated, practice-focused approach that links pharmacological mechanisms to real-world clinical care. Clear, concept-driven explanations build understanding of complex physiological processes while reinforcing safe, patient-centred and evidence-based use of medicines.

Aligned with contemporary Australasian practice, the text incorporates medicines policy, public health perspectives and interprofessional collaboration, preparing graduates for practice in dynamic healthcare environments. Particular attention is given to medication safety, polypharmacy and rational medicines use, especially in aged care and other complex patient populations.

A carefully scaffolded chapter structure supports learning progression and enhances engagement with challenging content.

New to this edition

Expanded coverage of aged care and special populations

Enhanced focus on medication safety and polypharmacy

Significant revision of foundational clinical, ethical and legal content

Major updates to cancer therapy, antimicrobial chemotherapy and resistance, obesity pharmacotherapy and vaccinations

Updated epidemiological data, clinical guidelines and emerging therapeutics

New and revised Critical Thinking Scenarios, with additional resources available via Evolve and ClinicalKey

Comprehensive, contemporary and accessible, Pharmacology for Health Professionals equips students with the knowledge and confidence to apply pharmacology safely and effectively.

Critical Thinking Scenarios opening each chapter establish clinical context

Clinical Focus boxes address common medication issues

Key Points summaries consolidate essential concepts

Drug Monographs and Drugs at a Glance tables provide clear, rapid reference

End-of-chapter review questions integrate theory and practice

Comprehensive art and expanded humanoid models illustrate core pharmacological mechanisms

Structured ‘chunking’ of content supports comprehension and retention