PSYCHEDELIC DRUGS IN SCIENCE AND SOCIETY

PHARMACY 671

Course Description

Overview of the science behind therapeutic use of psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin and LSD; basic medicinal chemistry of the tryptamine and phenethylamine psychedelics, as well as the neurochemistry and neuropharmacology of their action. Fundamentals of drug development and FDA approval process; Standards of screening and guiding individuals before and during a therapeutic psychedelic session contrasted with the recreational use of these drugs; Appraisal of current clinical research including an objective analysis of risk/benefit for indications such as depression and addiction. History of traditional, ceremonial use of psychedelics, as well as the relationship between recreational use and attempts to regulate and restrict their use. Role of psychedelics in indigenous cultures, impacts of psychedelic tourism and wild-crafting of plants and animals on indigenous peoples. Contrasts in psychedelic treatments to other therapeutic interventions such as mindfulness and meditation.

Prerequisties

Declared in MS Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation or Capstone Certificate in Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation

Satisfies

This course does not satisfy any prerequisites.

Credits

Not Reported

Offered

Not Reported

Grade Point Average

3.49

-4.59% from Historical

Completion Rate

97.1%

0.52% from Historical

A Rate

73.91%

-9.46% from Historical

Class Size

-6.12% from Historical

Instructors (2025 Fall)

Sorted by ratings from Rate My Professors

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