International cooperation in pharmacology and toxicology in China

This study aimed to analyze research hotspots as well as domestic and international collaboration trends in the field of pharmacology and toxicology in China. Articles published in this field between 2005 and 2024 by Chinese researchers were retrieved and analyzed using citation analysis and descriptive statistical methods. The results indicate that over the past two decades, China’s level of international collaboration in this field has been continuously improving. China cooperates most closely with the United States, while its collaboration with other countries remains relatively limited. However, China’s cooperation with Belt and Road Initiative((BRI) partner countries has gradually deepened. The influence of Chinese publications in pharmacology and toxicology over the past 20 years is comparable to the global average. Papers resulting from international collaboration exceed the global average in terms of the impact, whereas those based solely on domestic collaboration still have significant room for improvement. It is recommended that China adhere to the principle of “coordinating well for comprehensive advancement” in international cooperation, strengthen collaborative relationships with various countries, and uphold the ‘self-directed’ approach to enhance the global influence of the discipline. Furthermore, optimizing the layout of international research collaboration networks, promoting innovation in research models, and leveraging the advantages of a diversified funding system are essential to overcome existing spatial and technological limitations.