Provides a concise introduction to the chemistry of therapeutically active compounds, written in a readable and accessible style. The title begins by reviewing the structures and nomenclature of the more common classes of naturally occurring compounds found in biological organisms. Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry is a concise introduction to the chemistry of therapeutically active compounds, written in a readable and accessible style. Starting with a review of the structures and nomenclature of the more common classes of naturally occurring compounds found in biological organisms, the text then covers the discovery and design of drugs, pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism. The book concludes with a chapter on organic synthesis, followed by a brief look at drug development from the research stage through to marketing of the final product. The text assumes little in the way of prior biological knowledge and only a basic chemical knowledge. Relevant biology is included through biological topics, examples and in the Appendices. * A concise introduction to the essentials of medicinal chemistry * Assumes little prior knowledge of biology. * Incorporates summary sections, examples, applications and problems, along with their solutions. * Invaluable for undergraduates studying within the chemical, pharmaceutical and life sciences.