Drawing on the latest international sociological research, this monograph takes a critical look at contemporary developments, discourses, and debate on pharmaceuticals and society.

• Key issues covered include pharmaceuticals and medicalization and the science and politics of drug development, testing, and regulation
  
• Investigates the constructions of pharmaceuticals in professional and popular culture and the meaning and use of medications in everyday life
  
• Investigates pharmaceuticals, consumerism, and citizenship and the impact of innovation and expectations regarding pharmaceutical futures
  
• Written in a lively, accessible style, with many engaging and important insights from key international figures in the field