Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to ;
Demonstrate a basic understanding of the legislation governing the licensing, sale, and use of drugs in animals;
Recognise how medication errors occur, and perform basic calculations relating to medication administration
Demonstrate an understanding of spectrum, pharmacokinetics, chemical and pharmacodynamic properties, formulations, treatment regimens, side effects, toxicity, drug interactions and basic applications of anti-infectives, antiparasitics and anti-inflammatories used in veterinary medicine.
Retrieve and critically review pharmaceutical and scientific information on veterinary medicines and apply this to specific veterinary cases, citing source material appropriately.
Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the veterinarian in antimicrobial stewardship.
Indicative Module Content:
This module combines lectures and other materials to build on those elements and principles of basic pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, as studied in the earlier years. The module maps to the pathobiology modules as it introduces the student to the major groups of therapeutic agents for treating pathogen-induced disease, ie antimicrobials, antiparasitics, antifungals and antivirals. Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory drugs are reviewed, particularly the natural and synthetic corticosteroids and the various categories of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).
From the beginning, and integrated throughout, important legislation governing the use of animal remedies in Ireland will be covered, and reference will be made to key legislation in other jurisdictions.
The importance of judicial use of antimicrobials and anti-parasitics will be emphasised and reinforced throughout the module.