Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

The main theme is an introduction to drug use in our society. The following topics will be covered:

1. how drugs act at a cellular level, how they target specific body systems and how the body handles drugs (pharmacokinetics).
2. Sources of drugs - prescription vs over the counter vs herbal remedies and information available to the public about drugs. Rationale for choice of drugs for common diseases.
3. Drug development from the laboratory to the consumer. Factors influencing the development of new drugs (e.g. economics and logistics).

Assessment

Practical work: 20%
Semester test: 10%
Presentation and essay: 20%
Exam (3 hours): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr. Ton So Ha

Contact hours

Three hours of lectures, one hour of tutorials and three hours of practicals per week (includes wet practicals, dry practicals and CAL-Computer Aided Learning).

Prerequisites

PHY2021 and PHY2032

Prohibitions

PHA2022