William Murrell (physician)

William Murrell (1853-1912) was a British physician and clinical pharmacologist, best known for his research and advocacy of glyceryl trinitrate (nitroglycerin) for the treatment of angina pectoris.

Born in Rotherhithe, London, Murrell studied medicine at the University of Aberdeen and qualified as a doctor in 1875. He then worked at Westminster Hospital, eventually becoming assistant physician and lecturer in materia medica and therapeutics.

Murrell's interest in nitroglycerin stemmed from observing workers in explosives factories who experienced headaches and flushing due to exposure to the substance. Recognizing the potential of this effect to dilate blood vessels, he began experimenting with small doses of nitroglycerin on himself and his colleagues. He found that it could relieve the pain of angina by increasing blood flow to the heart.

In a series of articles published in The Lancet in 1879, Murrell detailed his findings, advocating for the use of nitroglycerin as a treatment for angina. His work was initially met with skepticism from some in the medical community, but his continued research and persuasive arguments eventually led to the widespread acceptance of nitroglycerin as a standard treatment for the condition.

Murrell was a prolific writer and published several books and articles on various medical topics, including diseases of the throat, climate and health, and the treatment of alcoholism. He also served as editor of the Medical Press and Circular.

He died in 1912 at the age of 59. His pioneering work with nitroglycerin solidified his place in the history of medicine and continues to benefit patients with angina worldwide.