FLVKB0361 - Pharmacology: From Physiology to Therapy

To give students anatomical/physiological knowledge about the structure and function of organs, including the effects of common diseases. On the basis of this knowledge, students should understand the mode of action, effects and principles behind safe and rational use of drugs.

Students should have knowledge of basic concepts of chemistry disciplines corresponding to at least 15 ECTS credits, of which organic chemistry corresponds to at least 10 ECTS credits. Similarly, biochemistry and/or molecular biology, and/or cellular biology and/or microbiology should correspond to at least 15 ECTS credits. Another requirement is that students must have passed the LMV course Principles of Pharmacology, 7.5 ECTS credits, or have corresponding qualifications.

The course covers with the following topics:

• Structure, function and patophysiology of the cardio-vascular system and the drug classes applied to the system.
• Structure and function of the respiratory system, including the transport of gasses in the blood, lung diseases and drug classes for treating respiratory diseases.
• The function of the kidney with emphasis on clearance and functions of the nephrons, including excretion of drugs. The kidneys' role acid/base regulation, salt- and water balance and medicines used to ovaid disturbing of the homeostasis.
• Structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract, the liver and the pancreas with emphasis on drug actions on the function and diseases of the GI tract including liver and pancreas.
• Endocrinology. The physiology of hormone producing organs, including glucose regulating hormones, calcium regulating hormones, growth hormones, thyroidea hormones, anabolic steroids, sex hormones and glucocorticoids. Energy transformation and temperature regulation including drugs for treating of obesity and antipyretics and diseases related to the above hormones.
• Structure and function of the central nervous system, including drug action on neurodegenerative diseases, psychosis, depression, epilepsy, pain, sleep, anxiety and abuse insomnia.
• Physiology of pain, analgesics and treatment of pain.
• Immunopharmacology and infections. The physiology of the immune system and its diseases; allergy and autoimmunity (rheumatoid arthritis). Immunomodulators including biologicals (mabs), antihistamines, gene therapy and vaccines. Cancer mechanisms and treatment with cytotoxic drugs. Infections, actions of bacteria and virus and their treatment.

At the end of the course, students should be able to:

1. Explain in depth the basic function of major organs, including the modulation and feedback systems involved in maintaining homeostasis
2. Explain the consequences of pathophysiological disturbances in single organs and organ systems, including drugs to treat these disturbances
3. Reflect on the target for the action, the indication and contraindication for treatment with commonly used drugs
4. Communicate the properties of classes of commonly used drugs used to treat major diseases
5. Propose a relevant pharmacological intervention for a patient on the basis of a relevant patient description with a known disease.

Examination design

The written examination consists of a set of problems. The individual weight of the problems and the questions are described in the examination set.

Requirements for passing

The highest number of points that can be scored is 100, and the requirement for passing is 50 points. The general impression is part of the assessment and may give rise to an adjustment of up to 10% of the score. Such an adjustment is based on the student’s demonstration of an overall knowledge of basic pharmacological principles and topics, and the absence of severe voids in the attempt.

Grade 12:
Excellent performance. A well-structured presentation with a clear outline providing exact and correct answers. The student demonstrates aplomb and a comprehensive view, and combines the learned elements convincingly. Also demonstrates with few unimportant deficiencies mastery of relevant terms, principles and methods used to develop a process from discovery to production

Grade 7:
Good performance. The student provides a coherent presentation with understandable unambiguous answers, the great majority of which should be correct. Also documents a certain overview over the learned elements and demonstrates with minor deficiencies a firm knowledge of relevant terms, principles and methods used to develop a process from discovery to production.

Grade 02:
Acceptable performance. The student demonstrates a less structured presentation with less precise answers. Demonstrates a limited overview and only a limited ability to combine learned elements. Demonstrates only to a limited extent and with a number of deficiencies the ability to handle relevant terms, principles and methods used to develop a process from discovery to production.

Bjarne Fjalland, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy