Neuropharmacology module (BS32047)

Learn about chemical transmission within the central nervous system. Learn how this may be modulated by pharmacological agents to achieve therapeutic benefit

Credits
20
Module code
BS32047
Level
3
Semester
Semester 2
School
School of Life Sciences
Discipline
DArcy Thompson Unit

​​Neuropharmacology focuses on therapeutic drug action in the central nervous system. You will study how major classes of neuroactive drugs work, what clinical conditions they are indicated for and their common side effects. You will also learn about the methods used to identify novel neuroactive drugs during pre-clinical drug development. 

​What you will learn 

​In this module, you will: 

  • ​Explore the major classes of neuroactive drugs used clinically such as anti-Parkinson’s drugs, antipsychotics, antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and opioid analgesics.  
  • ​ Learn about various pre-clinical approaches used in drug development to identify novel therapeutics for diseases and disorders of the central nervous system. 

​By the end of this module, you will be able to do the following:​

  • Discuss the mechanisms of action, indications and side effects of the major classes of neuroactive drugs 
  • Discuss and evaluate the various pre-clinical methodologies used to evaluate efficacy of novel neuroactive drugs

Assignments / assessments

  • ​​Paper analysis assessment with short answer questions (40%) 
  • ​Written exam (60%)​

Teaching methods / timetable

  • ​​Lectures, weeks 14-22 
  • ​Summative paper analysis, week 24​

Courses

This module is available on the following courses:

Module lead