LEARNING OBJECTIVES
The course is inserted within the specific objectives of the study program which aims to provide the student with advanced knowledge also in the biomedical field. This include, beyond basic knowledge in biology and genetics also the development of basic knowledge in neuropsychopharmacology and the use / abuse of substances, with particular reference to alcohol related problems. Therefore, in short, the course of Psychopharmacology aims to provide the student with a preparation on the principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics that reflect the effects of drugs active at the level of the Central Nervous System. The psychologist, in his/her activity, collaborates with other health professionals (e.g. psychiatrists, neurologists, nurses etc.) within a multidisciplinary team in the management of numerous neuropsychiatric pathologies. Thus, the course aims to allow the student to develop knowledge on the pharmacological basis of the therapy by integrating notions related to pharmacokinetics, molecular mechanism of action and the interaction of the single classes of drugs with the pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms of the main psychopathologies for which the above drugs are proposed. Finally, the course aims to allow the student to develop knowledge on the mechanisms of action of the most frequently used substances of abuse and on their pharmacological treatment.

EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of the course the student, as far as his / her competence is concerned, will be able to: i) know the pharmacological basis of the therapy of the main psychopathologies and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson’s disease; ii) know the main behavioral and / or unwanted effects of psychotropic drugs; iii) understand the potential interactions between psychotropic drugs and between psychotropic drugs and psychotherapies (eg cognitive-behavioral therapy); iv) understand the biological reasons underlying the variability of drug response and the critical importance of adherence to therapy; v) know the pharmacological basis of the treatment of the main forms of addiction to substances of abuse.
The course will help to provide the student with tools that will enable him to improve his ability to relate with other professional figures (medical doctors, nurses) who, in an increasingly multidisciplinary approach, will be called to take care of the client / patient.