Pharmacology is the scientific study of drugs and their interactions with living systems. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of how medications are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated by the body, as well as how they produce therapeutic and toxic effects. Students will explore the principles of drug action, mechanisms of action, adverse effects, drug interactions, and the safe and effective use of medications in clinical practice. The course integrates foundational scientific concepts with real-world healthcare applications to promote rational drug therapy and patient safety.

By the end of this course, the student should be able to

Define fundamental pharmacological concepts and terminology

Explain pharmacokinetic processes including absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drugs

Describe pharmacodynamic principles and mechanisms of drug action

Identify major drug classes and their therapeutic uses

Recognize adverse drug reactions, toxicity and drug interactions

Apply pharmacological knowledge to clinical and healthcare scenarios

Evaluate factors affecting drug response in different patient populations

Interpret basic medication information including indications, contraindications, and precautions 

Develop critical thinking skills for evidence-based pharmacotherapy decisions