(267) Teaching the Chemistry/Pharmacology of Psychedelics to Non-Scientists: Adaptation of PharmD Teaching Pedagogy for MS Students

Objective : New research has established a psychedelic renaissance as hallucinogens are positioned as a treatment for a variety of mental health disorders. Defined broadly as hallucinogens, dissociatives, deliriants, empathogens, and entheogens (which includes cannabis!), each drug class operates with a distinct pharmacological mechanism. The creation of a Medical Psychedelics elective course in the Masters in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics (MCST) program addresses the growing interest in psychedelics. Covering history, basic science (neurotransmitter biology, neuroplasticity, chemistry, pharmacology), and clinical aspects of psychedelic drugs requires introducing new foundational concepts in biology, chemistry, and pharmacology tailored for the MCST curriculum. This poster details the development of psychedelic content appropriate for students with science and non-science backgrounds.

Methods: Interviews with psychedelic experts informed the development of performance objectives. Two medicinal chemists and one clinical pharmacist adapted material from PharmD and MCST courses covering Medicinal Chemistry/Pharmacology/Pharmacokinetics concepts focusing on core foundations for non-experts.

Results: Basic science content focused on the fundamental biology of neurons and neurotransmitters, and how psychedelics contribute to long-term therapeutic effects (e.g., neuroplasticity and neurogenesis). Additionally, prodrugs were discussed, along with psychedelic drug classes and pharmacological mechanisms. Most were new concepts to the master’s students, which is not seen as frequently with PharmDs. Analysis of student feedback was positive showing the benefit of this model as a toolkit for education on medical psychedelics.

Conclusions: The field of medical psychedelics is progressing quickly, and as such, programs must evolve and adapt quickly to keep pace. For our students to be pioneers in the industry, they must have adequate knowledge of emerging trends and critically evaluate data to make effective recommendations to patients and public health professionals.