There are literally thousands of pharmaceutical substances (therapeutic drugs) that are potentially poisonous, if taken in sufficient dosage or for a long period. Toxic and fatal consequences are largely accidental or suicidal, as homicide by these compounds is rare. Though it is impossible to mention all such drugs in this book, certain medicinal compounds often involved in poisoning are enumerated: analgesics (aspirin, codeine, phenacetin, paracetamol, phenylbutazone, amidopyrine, etc.), antidepressants and sedatives, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, chloral, insulin, etc.