ADC514: Psychopharmacology of Addiction

Course Description

This course provides an in-depth understanding of the effects of psychotropic substances on the brain and the treatment of addiction with medications. Students will learn about the pharmacological basis of addiction, the neurobiology of addiction, the pharmacokinetics of psychoactive drugs, and the use of medications in addiction treatment.

Course Outcomes

  1. Explain the pharmacological basis of addiction and the effects of psychoactive substances on the brain.
  2. Describe the neurobiology of addiction and its relationship to psychopharmacology.
  3. Describe the pharmacokinetics of psychoactive drugs, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination.
  4. Analyze the use of medications in addiction treatment and understand the different medication-assisted treatments available.
  5. Evaluate the efficacy of opioid agonist treatment, medications for alcohol use disorder, medications for stimulant use disorder, and medications for cannabis use disorder.
  6. Critically analyze emerging trends in addiction treatment, including new medications and precision medicine.
  7. Apply ethical considerations when using medications for addiction treatment.
  8. Interpret drug tests and understand the implications of drug testing in addiction treatment.

Syllabus

Course Materials & Tuition

Hancock, S. & McKim, W. (2017). Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology (8th edition). Pearson. Emlet, M. R. (2017).

Descriptions and Prescriptions: A Biblical Perspective on Psychiatric Diagnoses and Medications (First edition). New Growth Press.

$79.99 (e-text)

$9.99 (Kindle)

Tuition $800.00
Total Cost of Course $889.98