New Core: Fulfills 3 credits in Area of Knowledge III (World Cultures and Traditions) or Area of Knowledge V (Analysis of Human, Social and Natural Phenomena).

Course Description: This course is designed to offer insight into the anatomical, biochemical and pathological changes that occur when psychoactive drugs are introduced into the human body via various methods of delivery. Discussions will focus on the stimulants, including cocaine and amphetamines; depressants, including opioids, sedatives and alcohol and those that can act as stimulants or depressants, including LSD, marijuana and the designer drugs. Students will gain knowledge of the prescription drug epidemic, the effects of over-the-counter medications and the lethal consequences of drug interactions. The pharmacological classification of these drugs and their historical emergence in our human culture will also be addressed.

Course Rotation: PLV: Intersession, Summer.