Key facts
UNE unit code: PHRM232
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Our understanding of the development of disease and approaches to drug discovery is rapidly evolving, driving the search for novel therapeutic targets and the associated agents through which to manage a variety of medical conditions. Of necessity, the focus of such research includes the cellular and/or animal model systems in which to evaluate these targets and potential treatments.
Critical to understanding the value of drugs for research is your ability to discuss the cellular and physiological steps that are involved in their action, and their potential for new drug development.
Studying this unit, you will build a foundation of pharmacological principles to understand the mechanisms of action of drugs, and the role of these drugs, toxins and chemicals in research.
In addition to investigating the assays used for measurement in pharmacology, the unit also examines the autonomic nervous system as a focus of drug action, muscle relaxants and anaesthesia for research, and drugs as tools for cardiovascular and respiratory research.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- define and describe the principles of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, as well as the processes by which these principles are measured;
- describe the mechanisms of action of local and general anaesthetics, drugs for the autonomic nervous system, cardiovascular system drugs, and respiratory system drugs in the context of research;
- describe the way(s) in which the choice of pharmacological research tool is influenced by the model system under study;
- interpret and analyse pharmacological data and differentiate between the roles of pharmacological assays; and
- synthesise information and communicate knowledge effectively.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 - Online quizzes | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Four (4) online multiple choice quizzes worth 5% each No. Words: 400 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Drug Presentation. No. Words: 2500 |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Students must pass this component. There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Rang and Dale's Pharmacology
ISBN: 9780323873956
Ritter, J.M., Flower, R.J., Henderson, G., Loke, Y.K., MacEwan, D., Robinson, E. and Fullerton, J., Elsevier 10th ed 2023
Text refers to: All offerings
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