NPSC 521P Pharmacology
Pharmacology is the study of drug mechanisms and drug use in the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of disease. The foundation of pharmacology is composed of organic chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy, microbiology and physiology. Because of this, the study of pharmacology usually encompasses aspects of other biological science courses you have already studied.
In this pharmacology course, drugs are considered to be chemicals which may alter both normal cellular function and also disease states (therapeutics). This course emphasizes the mechanism of action of drugs, their absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion by the body, the FDA approved uses in medicine and dentistry, their major adverse effects, and other information pertinent to medicine and dentistry. Drug interactions, rationale for use of specific drugs and drug indications and contraindications are also stressed.
The art of prescription writing will also be taught. Prescription writing represents a summary of the dentist's diagnostic accuracy, knowledge of therapeutics, and ability to communicate instruction to the pharmacist and to the patient as to the proper use of the drug.
Offered
Fall.