In the present volume-as in previous editions-the intention is to survey comprehensively all medicinal drugs commonly in use together with their pharmaceutical preparations. Because of the rapid increase in the techniques available for pharmaceutical analysis, ,the need for specialization has grown and the author has realised the impractic- ability of keeping in touch with all the practical details which are so valuable to the analyst. To overcome this difficulty and to enhance the value of the book, he has obtained the collaboration of specialist colleagues in the various fields of activity now included in the book.