LQB450 Foundations of Pharmacology

An understanding of how medicines work forms the basis of recognising clinical effects and adverse reactions. All members of the community have a responsibility in understanding drug action as consumers and health professionals. The work of health professionals is variable but may include communicating with consumers about their medicines, monitoring subjects, accurately reading and interpreting medical charts, checking doses, administering medicines, and monitoring for effects such as adverse drug reactions. They need confidence in these areas in order to have discussions with their patients and other health professionals, especially prescribers. This unit provides the principles of pharmacology which will prepare you for your role as a health care professional, medical scientist and/or consumer in administering and monitoring medicine use to improve health outcomes for Australians in accord with quality use of medicines.