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Chemistry

Adam Le Gresley, PhD

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Analyze atomic structure, bonding theories, and molecular interactions to understand drug-receptor mechanisms

Evaluate acid-base equilibria, buffer systems, and redox reactions in biological and pharmaceutical contexts

Explain organic chemistry principles including functional groups, stereochemistry, and reaction mechanisms relevant to biomolecules

Apply pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic concepts to understand drug action, enzyme interactions, and antibiotic mechanisms

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Analyze atomic structure, bonding theories, and molecular interactions to understand drug-receptor mechanisms

Evaluate acid-base equilibria, buffer systems, and redox reactions in biological and pharmaceutical contexts

Explain organic chemistry principles including functional groups, stereochemistry, and reaction mechanisms relevant to biomolecules

Apply pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic concepts to understand drug action, enzyme interactions, and antibiotic mechanisms

Skills: Chemical Analysis, Laboratory Interpretation, Problem Solving, Critical Thinking

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What's inside

Syllabus

Chemistry: Introduction

Chemistry is the scientific study of the properties of matter. It is a natural science that involves the elements that make up matter—their compositions, structures, properties, and behaviors, as well as the changes they undergo when reacting with other substances. At its most basic level, chemistry helps to explain how molecules and atoms may interact via chemical bonds and form new chemical compounds. In the body, this can be applied to our fundamental building blocks—for example, explaining why DNA behaves the way it does, how proteins fold, and why cell membranes have hydrophilic and hydrophobic compartments. Clinically, we encounter chemistry most often as it applies to pharmaceuticals and pharmacology. It governs the behavior of these molecules in our bodies, as with regard to bioavailability to binding sites and other characteristics.

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Learners who complete Chemistry will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 43 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Chemistry.

Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of...

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Considered the 'bible of pharmacology,' this comprehensive text provides an in-depth understanding of the principles of drug action and their clinical applications. It is an essential reference for graduate students and working professionals, offering detailed information on a wide range of therapeutic agents and their mechanisms. is invaluable for solidifying a deep understanding and is commonly used in academic and professional settings.

Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of...

Kindle Edition

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Rang & Dale's Pharmacology E-Book

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This widely respected textbook offers a clear and accessible introduction to pharmacology, covering fundamental principles and the actions of major drug classes. It is highly recommended for undergraduate students and can serve as a strong foundation for those new to the field. The book's clear illustrations and focus on mechanisms make complex topics easier to grasp. It is commonly used as a core textbook in universities.

Rang & Dale's Pharmacology E-Book

Kindle Edition

Shargel and Yu's Applied Biopharmaceutics &...

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Widely used textbook covering the principles of biopharmaceutics and pharmacokinetics. It is particularly useful for undergraduate and graduate students in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences. The book includes problem sets and examples to solidify understanding and is considered a strong reference tool in the field.

Shargel and Yu's Applied Biopharmaceutics &...

Kindle Edition

$$$

Rowland and Tozer's Clinical Pharmacokinetics and...

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This newer edition building upon the classic Rowland and Tozer text, incorporating pharmacodynamics more explicitly. It's an authoritative text for graduate students and professionals, reflecting the increasing understanding of the link between PK and PD.

Chemistry

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