Pharmacology is the study of the interactions between organisms (biological systems) and active substances - irrespective of the benefit or a harmful (toxicological) effect of the substances under investigation. Active substances are all chemical compounds that influence bodily functions. These can be both exogenous and endogenous active substances. Active substances that have beneficial effects are called drugs, while poisons (toxins) have harmful effects.

This results in a variety of tasks for pharmacology. Among other things, it determines the effect of drugs, develops new drugs or researches the effect of different foreign substances in organisms. In addition, pharmacology evaluates the therapeutic benefit of medicines and examines possible side effects. In addition, the field of pharmacology includes counselling and support in preventive medicine and treatment of the sick.