Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 400961

Coordinator Robyn Moroney Opens in new window

Description This subject deals with selected issues in drug use, misuse and abuse. An introductory section discusses mechanisms of drug action in the body and their likely effects. Some topical areas include; drugs in society (illicit drug taking and drug taking in sports), antidepressants and weight management therapeutic agents, and the exploration of complementary alternative medicines (CAMs) in Australian society.

School Nursing & Midwifery

Discipline Pharmacology

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 1 subject

Equivalent Subjects NATS 1005 - Drugs On Line

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. describe the principles of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacogenetics and the placebo effect
2. describe safe practices in the administration of a range of therapeutic substances
3. explain the dynamics and potential consequences of selected compounds commonly used to promote health, e.g. anti-obesity agents, and antidepressants, identify current management practices related to obesity and depression
4. describe the common effects and misuse of performance enhancing and recreational drugs
5. explain the physiological effects of recreational drug use/abuse
6. identify the role of Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs) within Australian society

Subject Content

Module 1: Foundations of Pharmacology
- orientation to clinical Pharmacology
- pharmacokinetics
- pharmacodynamics
- Pharmacogenetics
- Placebo effect
Module 2: Drugs in Society: Drugs in Sports and Illicit Drugs
- drugs in sport
- illicit recreational drugs and drug misuse
Module 3: Drugs Commonly Used To Promote Health
- Anti-obesity agents
- Antidepressants
- complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs)