SHS 222 - Pharmacology & Pathogens in Addiction Treatment

1. 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.
2. Explain the fundamental pharmacological properties of each drug classification and the mechanics of their entry and impact throughout the body and brain.
3. Explain common medical, psychological, and cognitive conditions that may precede, coexist, or be created by drug misuse, and which mimic intoxication, toxicity, and withdrawal.
4. Identify physical, pharmacological, and psychological implications and symptoms of intoxication, withdrawal, and toxicity for psychoactive substances alone and in interactions with one another.
5. Explain the nature of physiological detoxification, homeostatic dynamics, and indicators of recovery for each drug classification.
6. Understand Addiction Medicine practices and harm-reduction interventions.
7. Understand blood & airborne pathogens, including HIV/AIDS brief risk intervention for people with substance use disorder.