Human Services 130: Pharmacology of the Substances of Abuse

Substances of abuse and abuse potential are discussed, both legal and illegal. All areas, from the classifications to the mechanism of action, subjective, biological, neuroendocrine, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral effects and adaptations. Clinical relevance is addressed. Psychiatric medications are also introduced in the course content as is co-morbidity, also called dual disorder, is presently a more common diagnosis in treatment populations. Mechanism of action and the relationship to chemical dependency as a primary disease is discussed throughout the class. Includes a service-learning component.

Syllabus