Welcome to Neuropsychopharmacology,
This seminar-style course is designed to provide an in-depth exploration of the intricate relationship between drugs and their effects on the human brain and behavior. Using the textbook Psychopharmacology: Drugs, The Brain, and Behavior (4th Edition) as our foundational resource, we will delve into the biological mechanisms of drug action and their profound impact on mental processes and behavior. Additionally, we will engage with primary research articles and case studies to deepen our understanding of this evolving field.
The seminar format is designed to foster dynamic discussions, critical thinking, and collaborative learning. Students are encouraged to actively contribute questions, ideas, and insights to create a vibrant learning environment. While the syllabus serves as a general roadmap, it is adaptable to accommodate emerging interests and needs, allowing for a deeper exploration of specific topics.
What to Expect
1. Foundational Knowledge
• Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics: Gain a comprehensive understanding of how drugs are processed by the body and their effects on neural pathways and brain chemistry.
• Neuroanatomy and Neurotransmission: Develop an advanced understanding of neuronal structure, synaptic transmission, and the role of neurotransmitters in regulating brain function and behavior.
2. Drugs of Abuse
• Addiction and Substance Use Disorders: Explore the terminology, epidemiology, neurobiology, and pharmacology of addiction, with a focus on the neural mechanisms underlying addictive behaviors.
• Specific Substances: Analyze the pharmacology and neurobehavioral effects of commonly abused substances, including alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, psychostimulants, psychedelic drugs, cannabis, and opioids.
3. Psychotherapeutic Drugs
• Mental Health Treatments: Investigate the pharmacological treatments for mental health disorders, including antipsychotic drugs, antidepressants, sedative-hypnotics, and mood stabilizers used for bipolar disorder.
• Mechanisms of Action: Examine how psychotherapeutic drugs interact with neural systems to improve symptoms in individuals with psychiatric conditions.
4. Real-World Applications
• Clinical and Research Applications: Engage with real-world case studies to understand how neuropsychopharmacological principles are applied in clinical and research settings. These discussions will connect neurochemical mechanisms to practical solutions for mental health and public health challenges.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
Describe the advanced principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
Identify the major neurotransmitter systems and their roles in neuropsychopharmacology.
Analyze the neural and behavioral effects of psychoactive substances, with a focus on addiction and mental health.
Evaluate the mechanisms of action and therapeutic uses of psychotropic medications, including their risks and benefits.
Critically assess primary research in the field of neuropsychopharmacology.
Apply neuropsychopharmacological knowledge to real-world clinical cases and public health issues.
- Teacher: Luan Tonelli