Pharmacology / Toxicology - General

Introduction

Experts in this field are scientists who have focused their studies on the areas of pharmacology and toxicology. Pharmacology is the branch of science concerned with the study of drugs and how they affect living organisms, whilst toxicology involves the study of the nature and mechanisms of harmful effects of chemicals on humans, animals and other biological system. These fields are often studied in tandem and expertise in them is exceptionally useful in an expert witnessing context.

Some of the consequences of drugs and chemicals can be very detrimental – from severe bodily harm, permanent disability, to even death. Pharmacologists and toxicologists are useful for determining which chemical affected a body, how it affected them, and what the long-term ramifications may be. They can assist with preventative measures also, such as giving advice on the toxicity of certain chemicals someone may be exposed to in certain environments: for example, the cleaning products used in the home or the chemicals used in a workplace such as a lab or motor shop. They can also be useful in forensics contexts, helping to identify criminal activity through analysis of tissue, blood, or hair samples.

Experts in this area come from many professional backgrounds. They will have studied in pharmacology, toxicology, or both. They may also come from a medical background, from addiction specialists to doctors specialising in toxicology. They may also be chemists or pharmacists. The specific specialisation and background needed in your pharmacology and toxicology will be determined by the matter which requires examination.

At the bottom of this profile are brief details of a number of the experts that Expert Experts represents. Call our office to discuss your requirements and to obtain a recommendation that suits your needs and budget.

Expertise in Action

Experts in pharmacology and toxicology can be called upon to assist in cases relating to drug overdose, the long-term effects of exposure to chemicals like asbestos, and crimes concerning the liability of someone under the influence of a drug.

Sample Reports

For some fields of expertise we have some sample sections of de-identified reports. Please contact our office if you are interested in a sample.

Cost

The overall cost of expert opinion depends on the services required. Some of the key factors that affect the cost of advice include:

• The need for a view or inspection of a location
• The quantity of documentary material to be reviewed
• Whether there are reports of other experts to be reviewed and commented on in detail
• Whether there is a need for conferences with the expert either in person or by telephone/Skype

Relevant Articles The Science of Pharmacology & Toxicology

A helpful overview of the two fields and how they interact.

Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for psychosis

An article on some of the therapeutic research happening in the pharmacological community.

Asbestos Toxicity

An article on how Does Asbestos Induce Pathogenic Changes?

Relevant Cases Re Tobacco Institute of Australia Limited v Australian Federation of Consumer Organisations Inc [1992] FCA 630; (1992) 111 ALR 61 (1992) 24 IPR 529 (1992) 38 FCR 1 (17 December 1992)

A case concerning some of the affects of smoking including second-hand smoke.

Conway v R [2002] HCA 2; 209 CLR 203; 186 ALR 328; 76 ALJR 358 (7 February 2002)

A case which involved the death of a person from heroin overdose, determined by toxicological assessment.

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