Neuropsychopharmacology
Full course description
The first week of the course will focus on the neurotransmission process, in particular the role of neurotransmitter receptors as a basis for understanding the mode of action of Central Nervous System (CNS) drugs. In each subsequent week, the course will focus on one specific CNS drug or class of drugs. We will actively explore the primary classes of several CNS drugs, including sedatives, anxiolytics, and psychostimulants. For example, we will look into the effects of alcohol, cannabis, and MDMA. We will also delve into the pharmacology of these drugs through the lens of their clinical applications. In the final part, we'll focus on illicit drugs, examining their acute and long-term effects, as well as their potential medicinal benefits. For example, we will look into the science of psychedelics.
Course objectives
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- explain the basic principles of neurotransmission and drug-receptor interaction
- explain the mechanism of action of the major groups of drugs acting in the Central Nervous System (CNS);
- explain the major neurotransmitter systems in the brain and their role in cognitive and affective disorders and functions;
- explain the pharmacotherapy of a variety of disorders;
- explain the acute and long-term effects of drugs of abuse.
Prerequisites
- NEU1001
Co-requisites
- None
Recommended reading
All assigned readings and other materials are available via the course Canvas page and/or the UM library webpage.
- S. Jongen