Ernest H. Volwiler

Ernest H. Volwiler (1893–1992) was an eminent American chemist and pharmacist who is best known for his significant contributions to the field of anesthesia. He, along with his colleague Donalee L. Tabern, developed the first safe and effective intravenous anesthetic, Sodium thiopental, which is commonly known as Pentothal.

Early Life and Education

Ernest H. Volwiler was born on October 22, 1893, in Hamilton, Ohio. He completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry from Miami University in 1914. He then pursued his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Illinois in 1918.

Career

After completing his Ph.D., Volwiler joined Abbott Laboratories, a global healthcare company, where he spent his entire professional career. He started as a research chemist and eventually became the president of the company in 1938. He held this position until his retirement in 1958.

During his tenure at Abbott Laboratories, Volwiler, along with Tabern, developed Pentothal. This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized the field of anesthesia and has been widely used in surgeries worldwide. For this achievement, Volwiler and Tabern were awarded the Lasker Award in 1955.

Legacy

Volwiler's contributions to the field of anesthesia have had a lasting impact. His work has not only improved the safety and effectiveness of surgical procedures but has also paved the way for further advancements in the field of anesthesia.

In recognition of his contributions, the American Chemical Society established the Ernest Volwiler Award in 1985. This award is given annually to recognize outstanding research of a medicinal nature by a chemist.

See Also

• Abbott Laboratories
• Sodium thiopental
• Lasker Award
• American Chemical Society

External Links

• Ernest H. Volwiler at Chemical Heritage Foundation

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