Discusses the rise of drug information centers in hospitals and medical centers, highlighting staffing, functions, typical categories of questions received by centers, and sources used. An appendix of drug information sources included in texts, updated services, journals, and computer databases is provided. Thirteen references are listed. (EJS)

Discusses forensic science in general and forensic chemistry in particular, including laboratory techniques used by forensic chemists and toxicologists. (SK)

A survey of 51 of the 53 dental schools in the continental United States investigated pharmacology curriculum content and time allocation. Found that most schools offered a traditional didactic course in basic pharmacology, with half of the medical school-based and three-fourths of the dental school-based programs providing additional pharmacology…

Using pharmacology case studies with nursing students encourages theory-practice links and infuses real-life content. Cases provide rich qualitative data for evaluating curriculum. However, they are not a substitute for evidence-based practice. (SK)

This study explored the use of methylphenidate with two boys (ages 7 and 8 years) with Williams syndrome, a genetic disorder frequently accompanied by symptoms associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Both boys performed optimally on 10 mg of methylphenidate administered twice daily, although one displayed increased…

In mental health settings, human service education students may participate in the administration, recording, and monitoring of prescribed psychoactive medications. This paper reviews three common groups of psychiatric medications, focusing on clinical applications, central effects, and how human service education students can assist in their safe…

The evolution of the recruiting techniques used by the University of Arizona's pharmacology and toxicology graduate program are described, considerations in the development of recruitment efforts are discussed, and issues for the profession to examine in developing a long-term strategy for recruiting students are outlined. (MSE)

An instructional activity designed to clarify pharmacological concepts related to drug use is described. The focus of the activity is a simulation, with student actors, of the effect of drugs and alcohol on the nervous system. (IAH)

Describes and evaluates text providing background, conceptual understanding, and treatment options for major adult disorders. Strengths include comprehensiveness, treatment comparisons, and a process emphasis. Weaknesses center on biases toward psychoanalytic, behavioral, and pharmacological treatments while neglecting cognitive and "cutting edge"…

In response to Robert Cooter, Jr. (EC 202 670), who questioned the widespread use of Ritalin with children having attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, this commentary considers four specific points: how Ritalin works, Ritalin's side effects and relationship to Tourette syndrome, the assumption that Ritalin leads to drug abuse, and the…

Four adults with severe/profound mental retardation and self-injurious behavior (SIB) received naltrexone in a double-blind procedure. All patients exhibited decreased SIB when treated with naltrexone; three patients decreased SIB as naltrexone dose increased. There were no consistent effects of naltrexone on stereotypy, activity, or performance…

Assesses the generality and strength of nonclinical youths' (N=569) perceptions of the harmfulness and lethality of acetaminophen in overdose. Findings indicate that adolescents have ready access to acetaminophen and use it in suicide attempts but underestimate its potential for toxicity, lacking knowledge regarding side effects of overdose. (RJM)

Hypothesizes that pharmacological and expectancy effects may be two principles that govern caffeine consumption in the same way they affect other drug use. Tests this theory through a balanced placebo design on 100 male undergraduate students. Expectancy set and caffeine content appeared equally powerful, and worked additionally, to affect…

A survey of nursing education programs in England revealed that the teaching of pharmacology is usually integrated into curriculum. Respondents felt insufficient time was devoted to it and that there were opportunities for integrating pharmacology knowledge and patient education in practice settings. (SK)

Recent occupational therapy graduates (n=35) obtained a 53% correct response rate to a 69-item test on pain knowledge and attitudes. Results indicate the need for further education, especially in the areas of pain assessment and measurement and pharmacological management. (Author/JOW)