NURS 609 - Psychopharmacology

(3 credits)

This course includes principles of clinical psychopharmacology, including the neurobiological basis for psychiatric problems and disorders and their treatment. It covers the appropriate use of psychotropic medications in terms of actions; therapeutic effects; adverse, allergic and idiosyncratic reactions; indications and contraindications; pharmacogenomics. The importance of sound evidence-based principles in the selection of psychopharmacologic interventions with attention to safety, cost, simplicity, acceptability, and efficacy are stressed. Appropriate patient education and monitoring for therapeutic and potential adverse outcomes, along with evidence for patient compliance and non-compliance, is discussed. The responsibilities related to the use of prescription and non-prescription psychiatric medications is also emphasized. Grade only. Offered annually.

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