PHA3032

Neuro and endocrine pharmacology

(SCI)

Associate Professor Roger King

6 points + Two 1-hour lectures and three hours of laboratory or self-directed learning/ tutorial per week + Second semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: PHA3011, PHA3021

Synopsis: Neurotransmitters in the central nervous system (CNS) and principles of drug actions on CNS neurotransmission. The effects of drugs on endocrine function, including the hypothalamo-pituitary axis, reproduction and the thyroid gland. Mechanisms of action, uses, adverse effects and interactions and where appropriate, potential for tolerance, addiction and abuse of drugs used for the following: general anaesthesia, sedation, treatment of anxiety, insomnia, depression, epilepsy, psychoses, Parkinson's disease, ADD, dementia, pain, abnormalities of satiety, and endocrine disorders. Smoking and alchohol, drugs of abuse including opiates, stimulants, hallucinogens, sedatives and inhalants.

Assessment: Examination (2 hours): 60% + Written assignment: 15% + Laboratory work and written practical reports : 25%