Introduction to Pharmacology

Catalog description

This course provides an introduction to the mechanisms of drug action, focusing on howdrugs interact with biological systems at the molecular, cellular, and organ levels. Emphasis isplaced on understanding the fundamental principles governing drug-receptor interactions,signal transduction pathways, and the downstream biological responses that mediatetherapeutic and adverse effects. The course examines how structural and physicochemicalproperties of drugs influence their activity, selectivity, and potency. Concepts ofpharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics are included as they relate to understanding drugmechanisms, including receptor theory, dose-response relationships, and the influence ofabsorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination on drug activity. The course surveys allmajor classes of drugs, with a focus on elucidating their mechanisms of action within relevantphysiological and pathological contexts. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 285 , CHEM 227 , and CHEM 228 When Offered: Every Fall