3.00 Credits
In this course we analyze drug use, regulation, and policy, to provide a consistent, coherent and comprehensive view of pharmacologically active substances ubiquitous in society. All types of drugs are addressed - prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, sports enhancement drugs, religious use drugs, common use drugs such as caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol, and illegal drugs. Both the benefit and harms of drug use are considered, along with addiction. Each topic is examined from a broad range of perspectives, including those of pharmacology, law, addiction medicine, sports performance assessment, philosophy, and criminal justice, to counter the "silo mentality" that characterizes drug policy and control in American society. Ways of promoting justice in drug theory, policy, and practice, are developed. Active student discussion complements each lecture topic.