Description
 
Western pharmacology is the study of how drugs work and how body systems respond to and interact with drugs. In my opinion, there is no such thing as “basic pharmacology” since pharmacology is the synthesis of several varied and vast scientific disciplines such as biochemistry, molecular biology and physiology. For example, drug receptor-target interactions are best described by understanding cell and molecular biology. Drug routes of administration and metabolism are best described by physiology. While drug dosing, frequency is best explained by applying mathematical and chemical equations.

This guidebook will provide you, the student relevant scientific background to understand pharmacology of the most frequently prescribed and over the counter drugs. While it is not possible to cover every single drug, drug class, or interactions, main drug classes and commonly prescribed drugs within drug classes will be covered to create a foundation for you to build from. The following aspects of pharmacology will be introduced and detailed for drugs you are most likely to encounter in practice:
Drug Class
Drug Mechanism of Action
Drug Administration Routes
Therapeutic Application
Physical effect / Adverse effects
Cautions and Interactions
 
This guidebook takes a “beginners mind” approach, provides relevant scientific background with illustrations, charts, review questions and detailed answers for each main section to support your learning. Many pharmacology textbooks, including the ones referenced to write this guidebook, have an overwhelming amount of information and terminology, making it difficult for the novice to prioritise what is important to focus on and learn.
This course guidebook is designed for students enrolled in BMS 431 Western Pharmacology course with Dr Angeli Chitale ND, at Pacific Rim College. The purpose of this guidebook is to introduce students to the most common prescription and over the counter drugs encountered as a practitioner, — critical knowledge for creating and managing every holistic care plan.