534-330 Pharmacology for Physiotherapy

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Semester

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Subject Description

Basic principles of pharmacology, the level of drug action with the emphasis on the effect on the physiological systems of the intact human and effects on motor and affective behaviour; the pharmacolinetics of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion; methods of drug administration; pharmacology for specific clinical purposes including the mechanism of action, uses/indications, dosage, side effects, contra-indications; the effects of multipharmacy; drugs of dependence used in society.

On completion of the subject, students should:

Comprehend: pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic uses and toxicology of drugs generally used in medical practice and in particular those which influence the delivery and outcome of physiotherapy treatment, and those which are (or may in future be) used in the practice of physiotherapy; the actions of proprietary drugs, socially used licit drugs and illicit drugs with the emphasis on comprehension of consequences for the delivery and outcome of physiotherapy treatment.

Have developed: abilities to find up-to-date information on drugs and apply that information to the practice of physiotherapy; skills in detecting the effects of drugs on their patients and in delivering appropriate patient counselling or referral to medical practitioners.

Appreciate: the role of drug therapy vis a vis physiotherapy.

Assessment

A 2-hour written examination (100%).

Prescribed Texts

• Luty J and Harrison P, Basic and Clinical Pharmacology Made Memorable. 1997 Churchill Livingstone.
  or
  Rang H P and Dale MM and Ritter JM, Pharmacology. 3rd edition, 1995 Churchill Livingstone.