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Psychopharmacology - Drugs and Behavior


Course Description

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


Prerequisite

PSYC 4130 or BIOL 1108


Semester Course Offered

Offered fall and spring


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Course Objectives

1. Understand basic principles of the neurochemical basis of behavior 2. Become familiar with major neurotransmitter systems 3. Understand mechanisms of psychoactive drug action 4. Become familiar with the neurobiological basis of neuro- and psychopathology 5. 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 8. Drug abuse 9. Special topics


Syllabus