This module builds on areas covered in TFPG2001. The module will provide an introduction to the principles of pharmacology and therapeutics. The module takes a detailed look at drug targets in the human body and how these are used and targeted in the process of drug discovery. The concept and importance of pharmacovigilance is also covered. There is a particular focus and emphasis on the clinical aspects of various drug classes. The module emphasises the clinical aspects of drug use and their implications for patient counselling. The various body systems and their disease states as well as the drugs used to treat them is a key component of this module. The CYP450 system involved in drug metabolism and the effect inducers or inhibitors of this system can have on the concentration of a drug is considered.
Module Aims
To develop the student’s understanding of drug targets in the human body. To develop the student’s understanding of the principles of drug action , interaction and toxicity. To ensure the students develop a detailed knowledge of the pharmacology of a range of drug classes from a clinical perspective. To enable students to identify the clinical and practical information necessary to maximise patients benefit from drug therapies. To ensure students understand the significance and implications of inducers or inhibitors of drug metabolism and the implication of these in practice.
Pharmacology: Types of drug action. Processes targeted by drugs. Drug-receptor interactions.Dosage and response. Pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics. Drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination. CYP 450 system. Blood-brain barrier. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Mechanisms of drug interaction. Clinical trials, Pharmacovigilance. Adverse drug reactions. Therapeutic drug monitoring, narrow therapeutic index. Dependence and tolerance. Drug abuse and misuse. Effects of commonly abused drugs. Drug substitution and discontinuation. Basic principles of medicine use. Factors influencing response. Life stages: neonates, children, elderly
Therapeutics: Drugs affecting the gastrointestinal system. Drugs influencing the cardiovascular system. Drugs used in the management of respiratory disease. Drugs affecting the CNS. Such as Anaesthetics, Analgesics, Anti-infective agents, Anti-inflammatory agents, Anticancer chemotherapy, Anticonvulsants, Antidepressants, Antiparkinsonian agents, Antipsychotics, CNS stimulants. Hypnotics and anxiolytics.
Course material is delivered in lecture format with appropriate audiovisual aids. Students are encouraged to play an active role in these lectures, predicting compounds' actions, uses, toxicity and patient care implications based on their existing knowledge as the course progresses and drawing upon material from other modules.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 70 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 30 |