HSERV 242 - Physiology & Pharmacology of Psychoactive Drugs

Credits: 3
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 33
Lab Hours: 0
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: Broad overview of the pharmacological and physiological impact of psychoactive drug use coupled with a detailed examination of the neurochemical changes that accompany drug dependencies. Required course for students seeking the Substance Use Disorder Counseling degree (including fast track students).

Prerequisite: HSERV 141 with a C or higher.
Meets FQE Requirement: No
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Identify each class of psychoactive drugs as defined by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Identify the short and longer term effects of the major psychoactive substances found within each drug class.
Compare and contrast the four primary theories of addiction.
Describe the seven different routes of drug administration and absorption.
Discuss the drug substitution options available for Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) in Washington State.
Define what co-occurring disorders are and the range of services needed to provide effective treatment.
PROGRAM OUTCOME: Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and treatment of addiction, psychopathology (including knowledge of motivation to change), physiology of addiction, and mental illness.

Course Contents

Each class of psychoactive drugs as defined by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Short- and longer-term effects of the major psychoactive substances found within each drug class.
The four primary theories of addiction.
The seven different routes of drug administration and absorption.
Drug substitution options available for Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) in Washington State.
Co-occurring disorders and the range of services needed to provide effective treatment.

Instructional Units: 3