Course Description
This course is designed to provide a comprehensive examination of the major drug classes that are commonly associated with substance abuse and the development of substance use disorders. Lectures cover a diverse set of topics including chemical composition, pharmacology, characterization, detection, and legality. In addition, the underlying pharmacology of addiction and potential treatment options are discussed for each drug class.
Objectives
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand the molecular pharmacology and physicochemical properties of drugs of abuse and how they relate to the physiological effects and substance use disorders.
- Recognize the major classes of drugs of abuse, their origins, and associated risk associated with their abuse.
- Possess critical knowledge of intervention, treatment and policies governing illicit drug use, trafficking, and interdiction.
Topics
- Narcotics/Opioids
- Cannabis
- Hallucinogens
- Dissociate anesthetics
- Stimulants
- Sedatives
- Alcohol
- Performance-enhancing drugs
- Methods of detection