Description
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Understand the concept of a drug receptor (as distinct from a neurotransmitter receptor) and appreciate the nature of these receptors
- Define the terms agonist, antagonist, partial agonist, affinity and efficacy, and be able to apply these parameters in determining the properties of drugs
- Explain the importance of pharmacokinetics in influencing the response to a drug
- Demonstrate knowledge of the mechanisms of action and side effects of selected drugs affecting a) the peripheral nerves, b) the central nervous system, c) the gastrointestinal tract, d) inflammatory processes and e) infectious organisms and cancer cells
- Describe the ways in which differences between individuals can influence the response to, and toxic effects of, drugs
- Produce and deliver an oral presentation in an appropriate style and structure, demonstrating teamwork.
Assessment
The module is assessed by a combination of a written examination and course work:
Examination 75%
Course work 25%
The 1 hour examination is composed of MCQs and SAQs
The course work component will be a Group seminar presentatio