‘This noble method in physic’: Peter Shaw's proposal for a controlled trial of an ‘antidote’ for rabies (1723)

Introduction Peter Shaw (1694–1763) was an English physician who practised in London and Scarborough, Yorkshire. He was appointed physician to Kings George II and III. Shaw published many medical texts as well as translations of Lord Francis Bacon and Robert Boyle. Method Historical examination of Shaw's text A Treatise of Incurable Diseases (1723). Results Shaw states that ‘incurable’ conditions offer an opportunity to examine the cause of disease and its treatment. He proposes a model for a comparative trial of ‘antidote’ for hydrophobia (rabies) in one of two dogs and – if successful – in humans. Conclusion Shaw's proposal is an early model for translational medical research from animals to humans to ensure effectiveness and safety. The evidence suggests that Shaw's was an inspiration for Hauksbee the Younger's 1743 proposed ‘experimentum crucis’ of venereal disease treatments. That is because in 1731 they co-authored ‘An Essay for Introducing a Portable Laboratory’. Furthermore, Hauksbee reveals that Shaw was actively involved in early enquiries into the efficacy of his venereal medication. Due to shared roots in Lichfield and an interest in spa water treatment, the authors conjecture that Shaw's comparative approach might have roots in Sir John Floyer's 1702 controlled trial of cold-water on athleticism.