The Addicted Brain (Coursera)

Syllabus

WEEK 1

The Background & Overview of Drug Use

In this first week, we'll explore drug abuse, types of addictions, and the behaviors associated with them.

WEEK 2

Drugs & How the Brain Works

In this second week, we'll get a glimpse at why certain drugs are addicting and how they affect different regions of the brain.

WEEK 3

Classes of Drugs

In this third week, we'll take a deep dive into the different types of drugs and their individual effects.

WEEK 4

Classes of Drugs with Animal Models

In this fourth week, we'll take a look at the drug self-administration model in animals and the implications of these results.

WEEK 5

Neurotransmission & Brain Imaging

In this fifth week, we'll consider synaptic transmission and how drugs alter it.

WEEK 6

Vulnerability: Drug Use, Abuse, & Prevention

In this sixth week, we'll have the chance to consider the concept of vulnerability and the value and effectiveness of treatment.

WEEK 7

Treatment, Policy, & Decriminalization

In this seventh week, we'll explore drug treatment and government drug policies that exist.

WEEK 8

Drugs & Society

In this final week, we'll explore the recent opioid epidemic as well as the topic of medical and recreational marijuana.