Description

Introduction to pharmacology and neuropharmacology. Understanding of the biological basis for drug abuse and addiction. Major topics include: pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, introductory neuroanatomy, introductory neurophysiology, alcohol use and abuse, opiate use and abuse, cocaine and amphetamine abuse, barbiturate use and abuse, benzodiazepine use and abuse, hallucinogen abuse.

Topics

• Brain areas targeted by addictive drugs
• Actions of addictive drugs on individual neurons
• Nicotine, alcohol, and opiate addictions
• Hallucinogens
• Public policy for managing addiction in society

Requirements

A background in the biological sciences is recommended but not required.

PHM 431, in the Summer, is an online class utilizing animation, audio, articles, and asynchronous discussion forums

Recommended Background

Zoology, Human Biology, Psychology, Biochemistry, or Physiology

Recommended Textbooks

Julien's Primer of Drug Action 13th Edition

• Paperback: 704 pages
• Publisher: Worth Publishers; 13 edition (April 4, 2014)
• ISBN-10: 1464111715
• ISBN-13: 978-1464111716

 

Instructor(s)

Dr. James Galligan is a Professor in the Dept of Pharmacology & Toxicology, and Director for the Neuroscience Program at Michigan State University. He received his PhD from the University of Arizona. His research interests focus on synaptic transmission in the autonomic nervous system