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Psychopharmacology Curriculum
Module I
Introduction to Psychopharmacology
Biochemistry
Anatomy & Physiology
Module II
Neuroanatomy
Neurophysiology
Neurochemistry
Module III
Pathophysiology
Physical Exam & Lab
Neurological Exam
Module IV
Principles of Pharmacology
Clinical Pharmacology
Psychopharmacology
Module V
Chemical Dependency and Pain Management
Developmental Psychopharmacology
Special Populations
Research & Computer Aids
Professional Issues
Pharmacotherapeutics I
Module VI
Pharmacotherapeutics II
Wrap up and Final
(number in parenthesis = course hours)
Basic Sciences
Introduction
to Psychopharmacology: (6) This course will introduce
the students to the study of psychopharmacology with
a review of the major classes of psychotropics. Students
will also learn how to work in the learning environment
of the program.
Biochemistry:
(36) Presents an overview of biochemistry necessary
to understand the basis of physiological processes.
Includes a basic review of organic and inorganic chemistry.
Lecture topics include cellular organization, generating
energy, carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, peptides,
proteins, enzymes, hormones, vitamins and genetics.
Anatomy
and Physiology: (48) Presents a comprehensive
view of the human body emphasizing structure and function
of individual systems. Lecture topics include anatomical
terminology, cellular biology, the major organ systems
including musculoskeletal, circulatory and cardiovascular,
lymphatic, respiratory, reproductive, endocrine, gastrointestinal,
urinary and nervous systems.
Neuroscience
Neuroanatomy
and neuropathology: (36) Presents an overview
of the anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology of the
brain. Lecture topics will include functional anatomy
of the brain structures, major neurotransmitter systems,
the nervous system on a cellular level and an overview
of the clinical features of common neurological disorders,
focusing on those disorders that may present with psychiatric
symptomotology. Neuroimaging techniques will also be
covered.
Neurophysiology:
(24) Primary emphasis is on neurons, their electrical
and biochemical properties. A secondary emphasis is
on the functional aspects of neurons in control of behavior.
Lecture topics include neuron identification and classification,
neuron membrane characteristics, action potential generation
and conduction, synaptic plasticity and integration,
sensory and motor function, sleep and waking systems
and cortical specializations.
Neurochemistry:
(24) Primary focus is on neurotransmitters and the role
they play in psychiatric disorders. Topics include the
synthesis and transfer of neurochemicals, second messengers,
pre and postsynaptic responses, and a review of hormones
and their specific actions.
Pathology
Pathophysiology:
(36) Presents the concepts of health and disease, genetic
and congenital disorders, alterations in nutrition and
metabolism, dysfunctions of hematopoietic functions,
alterations in immunity and dysfunctions and pathologies
of the major body systems.
Physical
and laboratory assessments: (12) Teaches the
basics of a physical examination including basic medical
screening, history, systems review and basic lab tests,
the overall diagnostic and decision-making strategy
used. Ordering appropriate lab tests used in medicine.
Covers how to read lab reports and scans (MRI, CT, PEP,
etc.) and how to consult with others regarding the results.
Neurological
and laboratory assesments: (12) Teaches the basics
of a neurological examination and when to refer for
a neuropsychological assessment. Covers the appropriate
lab tests used in psychopharmacology.
Pharmacology
Principles
of Pharmacology: (24) Presents the basics of
pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Lecture topics
include drug administration, dosing regimens and associated
concepts, mechanisms of action, side effects, allergic
reactions, drug-drug interactions and dependence, tolerance
and withdrawal. Special topics will include gender,
ethnic, age and cultural differences in drug metabolism.
Clinical
Pharmacology: (36) Study of the major classes
of drugs affecting the autonomic and central nervous
system, cardiovascular system, renal, endocrine, gastrointestinal
systems, histamine antagonists, antibiotics and antifungals,
analgesic compound and immunodulators. Emphasis will
be on learning the pharmacology of the most frequently
prescribed drugs.
Psychopharmacology:
(48) Presents the principles of pharmacology applied
to the treatment of mental disorders. All classes of
psychotropics will be presented, including antidepressants,
mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, anxiolytics and sedatives/hypnotics,
psychostimulants and atypical medications used for treatment
of mental disorders.
Special Topics
Chemical
Dependency: (12) The treatment of co-occurring
substance abuse will be covered.
Developmental
Psychopharmacology: (12) Issues specific to pediatrics
will be covered.
Special
Populations: (12) This course will cover geriatric
populations, gender, and multicultural issues. Over
the counter drugs and herbs will also be addressed.
Research
Issues in psychopharmacology: (12) Presents ways
to find information about drugs, including books, journals
and computer aids. Students learn how to evaluate current
psychopharmacological research.
Professional,
ethical and legal issues: (12) Covers such topics
as referral and collaboration with professionals from
other disciplines, informed consent, risk management,
liability, writing prescriptions, record keeping of
individual patient's prescriptions. Monitoring patient's
reactions to medication changes including side effects
and toxic reactions.
Pharmacotherapeutics
I: (34)The integration of diagnostics, psychopharmacological
interventions and psychotherapy. Cases will be presented
for diagnosis and treatment planning. Special emphasis
on distinguishing mental disorders from physical disorders,
lab work, medication choice, referral and treatment
options.
Pharmacopsychology
Pharmacotherapeutics II: (8) Continuing case studies for discussion.
Wrap Up and Final: (6) Review for exam.
For additional information,
please call or email Dr. Yates:
dfyaggie@aol.com
(210) 494-1991
or
Lauri Ditto
Associate Director
Phone: (979) 862 - 8517
Fax: 979 862-7127
E-mail: lditto@cdlr.tamu.edu
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