AIMS AND CONTENT

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The aim of the course is to provide detailed knowledge in the field of drug abuse and dependence,  the related neurobiological mechanisms , mechanisms of toxicity , treatment of dependence, knowledge of some research lines  that are in progress to better understand various aspects and counteract the problem with therapeutic strategies and prevention.

Learning outcomes are: knowledge of the themes that are in the Course, ability to use the appropriate scientific terms.

TEACHING METHODS

Lectures will be supported by presentations and slides in pdf or Power Point format. All related files that can be given to students will be available online on “Aulaweb” website.  The whole content  that will be required for the exam is previously presented and explained in detail during lectures.  No further reading / books are required .

In case the standard in-class lessons cannot take place due to particular reasons, and following authorization by the qualified Institutional Figures, lectures can take place electronically using the appropriate online platform. The teacher will promptly inform students of any changes and related details by email,  AulaWeb website messages or the Degree Course website.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

General information and updates on drug abuse and addiction. Mechanisms of drug dependence. Factors of vulnerability for drug addiction. Pharmacology and toxicology of cocaine, amphetamines, ecstasy, phencyclidine and similar, hallucinogen drugs, opiates, cannabinoids, nicotine, ethanol.  New Psychoactive Substances (NPS). Outline of drugs used in doping. Therapeutical strategies now available against addiction. Information on studies on possible future therapy against addiction.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

It is not required to further read / study other texts , since all what is required for the final test is previously explained in detail during classes. 

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

During the first semester, according to schedule that will be promptly made available through the above indicated  communication media.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam test is a written test containing 3-4 open questions related to the most important topics of the Course. The standard time for the test is 60 minutes. It will be possible (not compulsory) to have an oral discussion related to the written test contents, to have a better outcome of the test. In the case of inadequate outcome (failure) in the written test it is possible to have an oral exam to ameliorate the outcome , or alternatively to repeat the written test. The final outcome will be expressed by a vote out of thirty. The exam is passed with a minimum of 18/30.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The aim of the course is to provide detailed knowledge in the field of drug abuse and dependence, of the related mechanisms and toxicity, treatment of dependence and knowledge of some studies regarding possible novel treatments.

Learning outcomes include knowledge of the themes that are in the Course and ability to use the appropriate scientific terms.

The written test is based on open questions, in this way the requested topic can be first described from a general point of view and then in a more detailed way, thus allowing to ascertain learning results and their achievement in a comprehensive way: answers will permit to evaluate students’ knowledge according to the aims of the Course, including the correct use of scientific terms.  

The final outcome of the exam will result from : ability to correctly understand questions in order to give adequate answer, understand scientific questions according to the criteria that have been explained during the Course, ability to use the scientific adequate language.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Although not mandatory, it is recommended to attend this Course after attending , previously, a Pharmacology Course if possible.

For any other information please contact the teacher :

 Luca.Raiteri@unige.it