Drugs in health and disease

This unit provides you with an historical and current overview of the use of drugs, with an emphasis on the principles underlying the safe and effective use of drugs for the maintenance of health and the treatment of disease. The importance of evidence-based drug therapy is highlighted with an introduction to epidemiological concepts. You will study the pharmacological properties of drug classes used to treat specific respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and urogenital disorders, concentrating on the rationale for their use. Pharmacological approaches applicable to the study of existing and novel drugs will be reinforced in your laboratory sessions.