# pharmacological

/ˌfɑɹməkəˈɫɑdʒɪkəɫ/ (US) · /fˌɑːmɐkəlˈɒdʒɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pharmacological
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

relating to the study of how drugs work in the body and how they affect people. It describes the science behind medicines and their effects.

For teachers: relating to the study of the effects of drugs on living organisms. Often used to describe the scientific discipline or the biological mechanisms of drug action.

## Examples

- The doctor explained the pharmacological effects of the new medicine.
- Researchers are studying the pharmacological impact of the herb to see if it can be used as a natural painkiller.
- The pharmacological profile of the compound suggests it may be effective for treating chronic pain without the severe side effects associated with traditional opioids.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
