ADDS 201 Pharmacology of Psychoactive Drugs

This course is designed to give students a comprehensive review of illicit and some licit psychoactive drugs that are available today. Students will learn and apply knowledge of basic principles of drug use, abuse and addiction. The history of drug laws and public policy in the United States of America; the fundamental rules of drug action: an overview of cell permeability and neuronal functioning; seven major drug categories will be covered. Students will apply their knowledge as the course progresses through interactive online activitiesand assignments with and an emphasis on socio-cultural and clinical applications of the material.

Credits

3 Credits

Semester Contact Hours Lecture

45

ADDS 201Pharmacology of Psychoactive Drugs

Please note: This is not a course syllabus. A course syllabus is unique to a particular section of a course by instructor. This curriculum guide provides general information about a course.

I. General Information

Department

HSHS

II. Course Specification

Course Type

Program Requirement

Credit Hours Narrative

3 Credits

Semester Contact Hours Lecture

45

Grading Method

Letter grade

Repeatable

N

III. Catalog Course Description

This course is designed to give students a comprehensive review of illicit and some licit psychoactive drugs that are available today. Students will learn and apply knowledge of basic principles of drug use, abuse and addiction. The history of drug laws and public policy in the United States of America; the fundamental rules of drug action: an overview of cell permeability and neuronal functioning; seven major drug categories will be covered. Students will apply their knowledge as the course progresses through interactive online activitiesand assignments with and an emphasis on socio-cultural and clinical applications of the material.

IV. Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:

  • Understand the varied roles drugs play in contemporary society
  • Understand the historical context of drug use, misuse, addiction, and public policy in the United States
  • Possess a basic understanding of the cell and cellular processes
  • Understand the roles and functions of at least five neurotransmitters
  • Possess a fundamental understanding of human neuronal physiology
  • Understand the mechanics of routes of administration, metabolism, and excretion of drugs in the human body
  • Possess a working knowledge of the human brain’s reward system and addiction theories
  • Know and define addiction, tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal
  • Understand the mechanics and ethical considerations of urine drug screening
  • Understand the history, effects, interactive properties, dangers, and clinical considerations of the following drug categories: stimulants, depressants (sedative-hypnotics), opiates, marijuana, hallucinogens, inhalants & club drugs, steriods, caffeine and nicotine.

V. Topical Outline (Course Content)

Explore the role of drugs throughout history and today Discuss the basic mechanism of neuronal communication, neurotransmitters and the "pleasure pathway" in the brain Explore route of ingestion, metabolism and excretion of drugs in the body Discuss the difference between drug use, abuse and a substance use disorder. Explore how drugs are classified. Explore each classification of drugs and the specific drugs included in these classifications. Explore the differences between drugs and the impact on the brain and body—both short and long term

VI. Delivery Methodologies

Required Assignments

1. "Welcome Week" 2. Learning Units (9 units that include required reading, videos, discussion, worksheets, Websites and quizzes) 3. Final Project

Required Exams

Discussions Activities Quizzes Final Project

Required Text

. Buzzed by Kuhn, Swartzwelder, Wilson, WW Norton Publishing, 2014

Specific Course Activity Assignment or Assessment Requirements

1. "Welcome Week" 2. Learning Units (9 units that include required reading, videos, discussion, worksheets, Websites and quizzes) 3. Final Project Discussions Activities Quizzes Final Project