The basic principles of pharmacology and toxicology are covered in this concept-driven module. An integration of biology and chemistry, it offers an outline of drug actions on the body, from the autonomic and central nervous systems to the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, renal and endocrine systems. Students will learn the essentials of cell biology, anatomy, biochemistry, neurochemistry and physiology.
The pharmacological aspect of the course introduces the theories of pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, pharmacogenomics and molecular pharmacology, while the toxicological aspect includes toxicity testing, drug overdose, teratogenicity and drug abuse.
Students will be familiarised with the materials, equipment and laboratory techniques, such as organ baths and pharmacokinetic studies which are commonly used in pharmacology labs.