Aims

This module introduces students to practical skills essential to students studying pharmacology. It links closely with the complementary module Pharmacology (PED1003) which is a co-requisite for this module. Students learn practical techniques for quantification of drugs in biological fluids and use these techniques to explore the effect of charcoal on drug absorption and the processes affecting drug metabolism. They also measure the different therapeutic and side effect profiles of commonly used bronchodilators.

The module will also highlight the importance of laboratory health and safety.

Outline Of Syllabus

The Pharmacology practical skills module consists of laboratory-based practicals on the following topics: drug metabolism in vitro by liver microsomes; determination of paracetamol pharmacokenetics using spectrophotometry; the bronchodilator effects of inhaled salbutamol and ipratropium; the absorption of paracetamol and the effect of charcoal on drug absorption.

The module is offered ONLY to Study abroad students. Students on other programmes in the School
of Biomedical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences may take the same practical classes as part of CMB1011.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Small group teaching will introduce IT skills needed for the practical work

Practicals will provide experience of laboratory work; information presented in practicals will include knowledge and understanding of the underlying principles of essential practical techniques and laboratory health and safety. Students will gain hands-on experience of a range of practical techniques and safe laboratory practice. Practical classes will allow students to develop skills in recording and analysing biological data, carrying out scientific calculations and using computers. Practicals also provide an opportunity for students to ask questions and exchange ideas with peers, demonstrators and academic staff in a relatively informal setting. Skills practised include critical thinking, data synthesis, numeracy & use of computer applications.

Independent study is used for self-directed learning and includes: reading lecture notes and texts relevant to the practicals; preparation for practicals and completing assessments.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Practical reports will test the students' knowledge and understanding of practical techniques, ability to record and analyse biological data, ability to carry out scientific calculations and ability to use computer aided learning packages.