Pain, Pus and Poison: The Search for Modern Medicines (2013)

Episode Overview

In the concluding episode, Dr. Michael Mosley delves into the fascinating world of poisons, highlighting the pivotal moments when researchers transitioned from creating antidotes to utilizing toxins as therapeutic agents. He honors the unconventional thinkers and trailblazers whose innovations laid the groundwork for remarkable medical advancements. Among the various medicines examined, those sourced from toxic substances stand out as particularly remarkable. This narrative illustrates how some of the deadliest compounds on Earth have been transformed from lethal agents into life-saving treatments.