On Demand (eLearning)
Course Overview
This six-week, self-paced, asynchronous course focuses on the basic pharmacology of mental health problems and substance use disorders. It is for frontline workers, care providers, case managers and clinicians working in mental health and substance use programs. Topic areas covered include pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, how neurotransmitters work, and the effects of psychiatric medications and substance use on the brain. We suggest participants set aside up to four hours per week to complete the weekly modules of this self-directed course. An expert pharmacist is available in the online discussion forum to respond to posted questions. Requirements of the course:
- pre-course evaluation
- post an introduction in the introduction discussion forum
- activities and quizzes in each module
- post-course evaluation
Learning Objectives
- Identify basic neurobiological mechanisms.
- Identify the relationship between medication management and psychiatric disorders.
- Describe the four basic concepts of pharmacokinetics.
- Describe the four basic concepts of pharmacodynamics.
- Explain the mechanisms of drug action in the brain.
- Discuss the management of common medication side-effects.
- Compare three pharmacological approaches to treating substance use problems.
Related courses
This is the recommended prerequisite for the Medication, Interactions and Substance Use course: Medication Interaction and Substance Use
While this course can be completed alone, it is also an elective course in the CAMH Concurrent Disorders Certificate program. Please use this link to view the program description and completion requirements for the Concurrent Disorders Certificate program.
Delivery Method
Online/virtual (delivered in Docebo learning platform).
Please read the Docebo system requirements to learn which browsers are supported when accessing courses in our learning environment.
Certification and Accreditation
- Continuing Professional Development has assessed the Basic Pharmacology in Mental Health and Substance Use with 20.0 study hours.
Affiliations and Partnerships
This course was developed in collaboration with the Hamilton Health Sciences.
Cancellation Policy
Please review the cancellation policy.
