The Chemistry of Drugs and Natural Remedies

Course Description

Summary

We hear about new drugs all the time: on TV, in the news, the opioid crises, etc. There is also lots of advertising for alternative treatments for illness or well-being. People have many questions about how drugs, plants, or supplements work and how do you tell if they are effective. These and other questions are considered in this introductory course, open to all students. No science background is needed. We will learn the chemistry and biochemistry necessary to understand the relationship between drug shape and function. Students will investigate what is known about active ingredients in natural remedies and evaluate data on their effectiveness. Social, political, and economic issues and the connection between pharmaceutical companies, profit, and the health industry related to drugs will also be addressed. Students are expected to do research, write papers, present discussions in class, as well as show competence in the chemical background.