DENT 2122 - PHARMACOLOGY

[60 Credits]

Pharmacology can be broadly defined as the interaction between living systems and molecules. Fundamental to the discipline of pharmacology is an understanding of the mechanism of drug action, with a drug being defined as any small molecule that when introduced into a living organism alters the body’s function by interactions of specific target sites. Pharmacology is both a basic science, dealing with the fate and actions of drugs, and an applied science, involving the therapeutic uses and toxic effects of drugs and other compounds. It is an integrative rather than an autonomous science, requiring a clear understanding of related disciplines such as organic chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and physiology. The goal of this pharmacology course is to provide the student with a sound working knowledge of drugs and related compounds. (Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics)