Several ancient cultures used salicylate-containing plants to treat pain, including the ancient
people of Rome, Egypt, and Greece. In what order did these ancient cultures thrive, from
earliest to latest?
Egypt, Greece, Rome
Greece, Rome, Egypt
Rome, Egypt, Greece
Greece, Egypt, Rome
Ancient Romans used willow remedies and so did ancient Native Americans. These two groups
of people did not communicate with each other as far as we know, and apparently discovered
willow remedies independently. Why couldn't they tell each other about willow remedies? How is
it easier today for news of a new drug to travel from one part of the world to another?
What scientist besides Felix Hoffmann was most responsible for the invention of aspirin? Why
was this person often excluded from the aspirin story?
Why in the world did anyone get the idea that adding acetyl groups to salicylic acid would
make it a more desirable pain reliever?
In general, why would a scientist change the
molecular
structure of a molecule?
If old aspirin gives off a strong vinegar smell, you know it is time to throw it away and buy
a new bottle. Why should you replace your aspirin when it smells strongly of vinegar?
What parallels can you draw between the aspirin story and the ongoing quest to make powerful
pain relievers from capsaicin?
When was the Pure Food and Drug Act passed? Why is it harder to sell an ineffective or harmful
medicine now than it was before the act was passed?
If you see the words, "These claims have not been evaluated by the FDA" in drug
advertisement, should you be more likely or less likely to accept the claims of its makers?
What are the benefits of a drug that can inhibit the activity of COX-2 while not affecting the
activity of COX-1?
Why is it difficult to study acupuncture scientifically?
