65643 Chemistry and Pharmacology of Recreational Drugs
6cp; 6hpwRequisite(s): 65545 Forensic Toxicology
This subject provides greater detail on the chemistry, pharmacology and societal context of a number of substances covered in 65545 Forensic Toxicology. The focus of the subject is those substances used for recreational purposes, that is stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens and mixed effect drugs (e.g. opiates, solvents, amphetamines, alcohol and nicotine). Other topics covered include routes of synthesis; profiling of drugs to determine the method of manufacture and/or geographical origin; construction and operation of clandestine laboratories; sampling and analysis protocols; examination of relevant state and federal legislation regarding the possession, supply, manufacture and importation of certain drugs; the use of drugs in sport; the 'war on drugs'; case studies and social issues relating to the recreational use of drugs. The laboratory component includes experiments in natural product chemistry and two cognate syntheses based on procedures carried out in clandestine laboratories, as well as workshops and tutorials on the elucidation of the structure and purity of an unknown substance and those synthesised during practical sessions.
Typical availability
Spring semester, City campus (from 2010)
Detailed subject description.
Fee information
2010 contribution for commencing Commonwealth-supported students: $531
Note: Students who commenced prior to 1 January 2010 should consult the student contribution charges for Commonwealth-supported students
Not all students are eligible for Commonwealth-supported places.
2010 amount for undergraduate domestic fee-paying students: $2688
Note: Fees for postgraduate domestic fee-paying students and international students are charged according to the course they are enrolled in. Students should refer to the annual fees schedule.
Subject EFTSL: 0.125Access conditions
Note: The requisite information presented in this subject description covers only academic requisites. Full details of all enforced rules, covering both academic and admission requisites, are available at access conditions and My Student Admin.
