FARB2300 Physiology and Pharmacology 2 Course description

This course is about the effect pharmaceuticals have on the body and how pharmaceuticals are used in different therapeutic fields. Key topics are the immune system, the respiratory system and the circulatory system. The course focuses on regulating the function of these organ systems and the pathophysiology of selected illnesses and pharmaceuticals used to treat them.

This course focuses on basic chemistry as a basis for the pharmacy disciplines. The course comprises general chemical theories and principles.

After completing the course, the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence: 

Knowledge 

The student 

• can describe the structure and function of the immune system, respiratory system and circulatory system
• can explain how the function of the above-mentioned organ systems can be regulated
• can explain the cellular/molecular mechanisms of action of drugs and endogenous signal molecules related to the above-mentioned organ systems, including target molecules and signalling pathways             
• can explain the pharmacological effects and probable side effects of relevant drug classes
• can explain the connection between physiology, pathophysiology and the principles of drug treatment of selected therapeutic areas
• can describe the activation mechanisms, function and regulation of the immune system
• can describe the conditions for immunological memory and vaccination
• can describe the Norwegian recommendations for diet, nutrition and physical activity published by the Norwegian Directorate of Health

Skills 

The student 

• can apply knowledge of mechanisms of action, effects and side-effects in the assessment of drug treatment of selected therapeutic areas
• can communicate and discuss relevant subject matter with fellow students
• can work individually and in groups using a problem-based approach to relevant subject matter

General competence  

The student 

• can demonstrate an awareness of drug use in selected therapeutic areas
• can familiarise himself/herself with the mechanisms of action of new drugs and the treatment principles of selected therapeutic areas

All exams are assessed by two examiners. At least 30% of the exam papers will be assessed by an external examiner. The external examiner’s assessment should benefit all the students.

After completing the course, the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge;;;;

The student;

• can describe trends in the main groups of the periodic system and explain intermolecular and intramolecular forces
• can describe the physical properties of liquids, gases, solutions and solid matter
• can explain reactions of organic and inorganic acids and bases, redox reactions and precipitation
• can explain the principles of thermodynamics and the relationship between thermodynamics, electrochemistry and chemical equilibrium
• can explain the main principles of reaction kinetics
• can describe the functional groups in organic molecules

Skills

The student;

• can carry out stoichiometric and concentration calculations
• can conduct selected chemical experiments, and interpret and present experimental data generated from them
• can carry out equilibrium calculations and anticipate the effects of external influences on systems in equilibrium
• can carry out acid-base calculations, including buffer calculations
• can demonstrate safe conduct at the laboratory and can work in accordance with the regulations for health, safety and the environment (HSE)

General competence ;

The student

• can demonstrate an understanding of general chemistry as a basis for the pharmacy disciplines

The work and teaching methods comprise lectures, seminars, group work and a laboratory course. Digital learning resources are an important part of the teaching activities. Practical skills are acquired through laboratory work. The students must complete pre-lab and a safety course before they can start the laboratory course. The laboratory course also includes written tests.; By alternating between theory and practice, the programme helps the students to develop their ability to cooperate and work independently.

The following must have been approved in order for the student to take the exam:

• Minimum attendance of 80% at laboratory courses.
• Minimum attendance of 80% at seminars with supervised group work.
• Laboratory reports in accordance with specified criteria.
• Completed three written digital tests.
• Completed safety training before participating in the laboratory course.

Supervised individual written exam, 4 hours.

Calculator and Kjemidata (tables) by Bjørn Pedersen.

Grade scale A-F

The course consists of the following subject areas, specified below with the number of credits:

• General chemistry, 10 credits