BH 224 SUD Pharmacology & Pathogens

5 credits

This course identifies pharmacological and physiological effects of psychoactive substances related to addiction, how effects are produced, treatment methods for chronic conditions, and drug interactions. It reviews blood & airborne pathogens, including HIV/AIDS brief risk intervention for people with substance use disorder (SUD), behavioral addictions, and psychotropic medications. This course addresses the educational content specified in WAC 246-811-030 (3 B and G).

Prerequisites: BH 113

Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Describe the impact of psychoactive drugs on the human body, including ingestion, absorption, metabolism, effects on the brain, liver, vascular, organs, and acute and chronic states of related disease, and repair
Explain the fundamental pharmacological properties of each drug classification and the mechanics of their entry and impact throughout the body and brain
Explain common medical, psychological, and cognitive conditions that may precede, coexist, or be created by drug misuse, and which mimic intoxication, toxicity, and withdrawal
Identify physical, pharmacological, and psychological implications and symptoms of intoxication, withdrawal, and toxicity for psychoactive substances alone and in interactions with one another
Explain the nature of physiological detoxification, homeostatic dynamics, and indicators of recovery for each drug classification
Contrast Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) practices and harm-reduction interventions with other treatment philosophies
Identify blood and airborne pathogens and be prepared for HIV/AIDS brief risk intervention for people with substance use disorders

Total Hours: 50 Theory (Lecture) Hours: 50