Clinical Psychopharmacology (MS) Program

Course Descriptions

PX 239—Pharmacology and Psychopharmacology I

8 credits

Principles of Pharmacology
This module will provide the foundation for understanding the basic mechanisms of drug action, specifically how drugs are delivered and removed from their sites of action. An examination of the pharmacological features of different classes of drugs and the ways in which drugs produce their biological effects will be provided. Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic principles will be explored through a study of relevant drug interactions. A review of classification and regulatory and governmental control issues will conclude this module.

Principles of Clinical Psychopharmacology
This module provides an introduction to the use of medication in clinical practice within the context of a psychologist and physician collaborative service delivery model. The historical, philosophical, biopsychosocial and legal and ethical issues involved in clinical psychopharmacology will be presented. In addition, the use of computer technology in clinical practice will be introduced.

Chemical Dependency and Chronic Pain Patient
The complex clinical issues of effective intervention with these two very challenging, and at times, overlapping populations will be reviewed. Issues of compliance, detoxification, relapse and relapse prevention will also be reviewed.

Psychotic Disorders
This module will begin with a review of epidemiology, phenomenology, and biological mechanisms of psychosis. The roles of neurotransmitters, including dopamine, and abnormal brain morphology and neurochemistry will be explored. Antipsychotic agents from all classes will be presented with a focus on the mechanisms of action, side effects, and drug interactions. Long-term exposure iatrogenic effects and medical and legal concerns in the treatment of this population will be presented.

Updated 10/1/07