"Each title in The Story of a Drug series examines a particular groups or class of pharmaceutical drugs from a variety of angles, including its history, effects, uses and misuses, and impact on society and popular culture. Through this multifaceted approach, readers gain a holistic understanding of some of the most commonly prescribed medications today, from antibiotics and painkillers to drugs that treat asthma and allergies." -- Back cover.

A case study: an encounter with measles -- What are vaccines? -- Vaccines: a brief history -- How vaccines work -- Effects and applications -- Risks, misuse, and overdose -- Production, distribution, and regulation -- The social dimensions of vaccines -- The future of vaccines.