Nutritional Pharmacology NUTR 3317

Course description:

This course will introduce the basic concepts of pharmacology and the different classes of medicinal compounds that are in use. Differences and similarities between drugs, nutrients and dietary supplements will be addressed, as well as the way these are discovered and developed into products. Attention will also be given to the consequences of drug formulation for the dose-regimen and effect(s). Examples from clinical therapy will be used to illustrate pharmacotherapy. Finally, the interaction between nutrients and drugs will be studied.

Course Aims:

The course aims to introduce students to, and provide a broad based knowledge and understanding of:
  • The importance of studying Pharmacology.
  • The differences between a medicinal product, a food supplement and a functional food, and to recognize these categories.
  • General pharmacological principles of drug action.
  • The various routes of drug administration.
  • The basic concepts of phytotherapy and homeopathy.
  • Different types of claims on food products.
  • Drug discovery, development and registration.
  • The impact of nutrient drug interactions.

Course outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, student will be able to:
  • Explain the composition and properties of the most common dosage forms.
  • Understand the basic principles of pharmacology and to explain the general mechanisms of action of the most important classes of medicines.
  • Perform basic calculations on the behavior of drugs in the body (pharmacokinetics) and to estimate dosing schedules based on these calculations.
  • Understand and explain how the formulation of an active compound can influence its effects and side-effects.
  • Explain the differences and similarities between drugs, dietary supplements and functional foods in terms of their legal status and use.
  • Have a basic knowledge on pharmacological methods and the way medicines are being discovered and developed.
  • Understand and explain the major mechanisms of food-drug interactions.
  • Interpret a drug package leaflet.
  • Form an opinion on a food supplement or dietary intervention strategy with a health claim, and to evaluate its role in the prevention or treatment of a disease from a nutritional and pharmacological point of view.