CEBN 0909 - Prescribing the Right Medication: Biochemical and Molecular Basis of Drug Action

Institution:

Brown University

Subject:

Description:

How does a beta-2 agonist such as albuterol control asthma symptoms? Why can’t Parkinson’s patients who also suffer from depression take MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) to treat their depression? Why does a surgical patient on opiate painkillers require higher doses of opiates over time to relieve their pain? A basic understanding of the mechanisms of drug action and factors that affect drug action will help answer these questions. In this course we will master the principles of pharmacology (i.e. the study of the properties of drugs, their uses, and their effects). We will then utilize this basic knowledge to explore how various classes of drugs affect the body\'s control centers, the autonomic and central nervous systems. The course structure includes lectures, short exams, and a possible field trip to help students understand how drugs are manufactured. Furthermore, student ability to analyze the therapeutic and adverse effects of a given drug or class of drugs will be tested in a drug report assignment and a jeopardy quiz. The in-depth introduction to pharmacology covered in this course will benefit students interested in pharmacy, medicine, nursing, neuroscience, and other health-related careers. This course is directed toward upper-level high school students who have a good understanding of biology and chemistry.

Credits:

0.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

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Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.brown.edu

Phone Number:

(401) 863-1000

Regional Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Calendar System:

Semester

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