Pharm & Disease in Substance Use

This course provides an exploration of the psychotropic medications and diseases that impact many persons with substance use disorders. Students will become familiar with neurobiological processes, including neurotransmission, the various elements of the nervous system, and the effects, mechanisms, and actions of classes of psychotropic drugs. They will study the terms and abbreviations used in the medical and psychotherapy profession. Students will explore the biological, social and psychological aspects of communicable diseases and their relationship with substance use disorders. Specific topics include epidemiology, disease progression and treatment of HIV, STDs and hepatitis. Risk assessment, risk reduction, psychological interventions, medical management and legal issues are included.