The effects of psychoactive drugs on consciousness and behavior. The mechanisms of drug action on neurotransmitter systems are emphasized. Topics include the relationship between behavior and endogenous neurochemical activity, therapeutic agents in psychopathology, and drugs of abuse.
Athena Title
Psychopharmacology
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in PSYC 5850E
Prerequisite
PSYC 4130 or PSYC 4130E or BIOL 1108
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall and spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will understand basic principles of the neurochemical basis of behavior.
Students will become familiar with major neurotransmitter systems.
Students will understand mechanisms of psychoactive drug action.
Students will become familiar with the neurobiological basis of neuro- and psychopathology.
Students will become familiar with basic research literature in psychopharmacology, read and critically evaluate original research reports.
Topical Outline
1. Introduction/terminology
2. Principles of pharmacology
3. Structure and function of neurons
4. Introduction to the nervous system
5. Neurotransmitter systems: biosynthesis, receptors, and anatomy
6. Psychoactive drug classification
7. Mechanisms of drug action in the central nervous system
