Unit name | Mechanisms of Drug Action 1A |
---|---|
Unit code | PHPH10005 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | C/4 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Professor. Kelly |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
A'Level Chemistry recommended |
Co-requisites |
A-level Biology is not essential but students will be required to study basic cell biology during the unit |
School/department | School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience |
Faculty | Faculty of Life Sciences |
This unit provides students with a broad introduction to pharmacology. The unit begins with an introduction to the physiology of the different cell types in the body and how drugs modulate their function. Fundamental principles of drug-receptor interactions are discussed. Neurotransmission, as a major target for selective drug action and clinical intervention, is illustrated by consideration of the pharmacology of the autonomic nervous system. Drug toxicity, adverse reactions to drugs, and general toxicological principles contribute an important and interesting aspect to the unit. Workbooks are used to build upon and expand lecture material.
Aims:
To understand:
Exam paper (end of unit) 70% Workbook 20% Laboratory work 10%
Recommended textbooks
Multiple copies of these books are available from the Lifezone. However Pharmacology Honours students may wish to have their own copy of “Pharmacology” to use throughout their degree course (a new 7th edition of this textbook is now out but the older editions are still fine to use; note that Professor Graeme Henderson from this School co-authored the latest edition). A handout is provided for most lectures but it is a good idea to consult a textbook to supplement your lectures notes and to clear up any problems you have with the lecture material. The two textbooks listed below are particularly relevant to the first year unit:
Other useful books and websites include:
FOR THOSE WITHOUT PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE OF A-LEVEL BIOLOGY THE FOLLOWING TEXTS ARE RECOMMENDED:
These texts should be consulted when you are having problems understanding the fundamental biological principles/nomenclature mentioned in lectures.
The following websites may also be helpful: