Systemic Therapeutics

Abstract

From the information currently available, dentists are not availing themselves of the advantages to both their patients and themselves of systemic therapeutics. Very limited use is made of parenteral therapy, and recent studies relative to the frequency of prescription writing by dentists indicate that but meager use is made of oral systemic therapy. Probably a prime reason for this situation is a lack of basic understanding of the general pharmacology of compounds available. In order to offset this deficiency, it is suggested that the formal education of the dentist be more oriented to applied pharmacology and that study groups, postgraduate courses, and continuing education be utilized to keep the recent graduate current and to reawaken interest in the older practitioner. The injudicious and reckless use of drugs is condemned; the rational, thoughtful approach to therapeutics represents adherence to the paramount axiom: “First, do no harm.”