Syllabus
Doctor of Clinical Nutrition
DCN 815: Nutrition Pharmacotherapy
Credits - 2
Description
Key concepts and applications of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products used in traditional and complementary medicine will be examined through a nutritional biochemistry and human metabolism framework. Topics include pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, indications, contraindications, safety, interactions, and administration. Emphasis is placed on the intersection of pharmacology and nutrition therapy in disease management. Students engage in evidence analysis and apply theory to practice through case studies.
Materials
Learning Objectives and Outcomes
DCN Program Outcomes (PLO)
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to:
- Apply adaptive and responsive leadership skills in healthcare, higher education, and community settings (depending on focus of student).
- Apply evidence-informed approaches when generating, appraising, and utilizing research.
- Lead the provision of safe, ethical, and evidence-based healthcare, higher education, and community services.
This course fulfills DCN Program Outcomes PLO 2 and PLO 3 as demonstrated through the course key assessment – Pharmacotherapy Visual Abstract Project.
Course Outcomes
By the end of the course, the student will be able to:
- Integrate principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to inform nutrition practice decisions.
- Generate nutrition-related pharmacotherapy recommendations based on the synthesis and analysis of patient-centered clinical indicators and nutrition professional scope and standards of practice, legislation, and organizational policies.
- Implement interprofessional strategies to mitigate nutrition implications resulting from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical administration.
- Justify clinical decisions and nutrition services through the application of evidence-based guidelines, current scholarly literature, and research.
Assignments
Lectures
This course is lecture-based; please see each week’s module for required, supplemental, and optional viewing as applicable.
Discussions
You will be required to participate in weekly discussions during most if not all weeks of the course. Initial posts are due by Sunday, and response posts are due on Tuesday. If the initial post and response posts are not submitted within the assigned discussion week, you will be given a zero. Posts submitted after the discussion week will not be graded.
Your success in the course relies on robust discussion, critical thinking, and peer response. Weekly posts responding to prompts posed are meant to facilitate a deeper understanding of the broader themes of the course as well as apply concepts you are learning through course readings, handouts, and lectures.
Your initial response should be substantive in nature and should generally be no less than 500 words but not more than 1000 words, not including references. It is important to synthesize and articulate content in a clear, complete, and concise manner. Peer responses should be no less than 300 but not more than 500 words and must offer positive, supportive, and constructive feedback to help deepen the conversation.
All posts must be written following standards of academic/professional writing and maintain a professional tone. All responses, both initial and peer, must be supported with synthesized current scholarly literature documented in AMA format.
Please be sure to follow the individual directions provided with each Discussion Board prompt, as the requirements may vary from Discussion Board to Discussion Board. Please review the DCN Discussion Guidelines for submission standards.
Assignments, Projects, and Assessments
See Brightspace for full assignment instructions, requirements, and rubrics.
In regard to all assignments, please observe the following:
- All assignments must be completed using AMA style for formatting, citation, and referencing where appropriate.
- All times related to assignment due dates refer to Eastern Time (ET).
- All questions about assignments should be sent through email to the course instructor.
- There will be no extra credit offered.
Students will receive feedback on each assignment usually within three days of the submission deadline (possibly longer for larger projects and papers, in which the course instructor will inform students). Grades and assignment feedback will be posted to the gradebook in Brightspace. Students should review assignment feedback and use the feedback to maintain or improve course performance, particularly when completing subsequent assignments. Students who earn a grade below B- (80%) on an assignment or who have a grade below B- (80%) in the course should contact the course instructor at their earliest convenience to discuss resources and strategies to improve performance.
Key Assessment
Throughout the course, students will complete parts of the Visual Abstract and Summary Worksheet. The Visual Abstract Project will require students to develop a PIO/PICO question, systematically search the literature, Select relevant primary research articles, critically examine and interpret current research, formulate a professional opinion to answer the PIO/PICO question and summarize overall findings into a professional presentation and visual abstract.
Course Reflection and E-Portfolio
At the end of the course, students will identify one course assignment that best showcases their learning and achievement of course outcomes. The assignment will be saved as an artifact to place in their E-Portfolio at the end of the program. Students will reflect on a series of related questions to document their professional growth and development in the course.
Writing Statement
As professionals in the field, you will consistently be expected to clearly and concisely articulate advanced concepts for diverse audiences at a variety of educational levels.
Graduate students are expected to integrate and apply current scientific evidence and scholarly practice guidelines when completing assignments. Theories, ideas, concepts, and other information obtained or generated through review of the scholarly literature must be synthesized and summarized across multiple sources and correctly attributed.
Graduate students are expected to produce their best quality work, including screening their work prior to submission for clarity, grammatical, spelling, formatting and mechanical issues.
While there is often a portion of each assignment’s rubric dedicated specifically to grammar, spelling, mechanics, and formatting, it is critical to understand that failure to submit work that has been adequately proofed may result in a reduction of points in other areas of the rubric. These may include, but are not limited to, metrics rating professionalism or content knowledge and synthesis; work submitted in graduate courses should provide evidence of strategic reading, writing, and academic speaking skills essential for success in the discipline.
Please note that the Graduate Programs in Applied Nutrition, which includes the Doctor of Clinical Nutrition program, holds the position that Grammarly and other AI writing and generative technology should not be ordinarily used when completing course assignments, unless explicitly permitted by course faculty and assignment instructions. These tools do not support a student’s personal and direct capacity to develop and hone skills in creativity, logic, critical thinking, analysis, evaluation, theorization, and writing, which are central to graduate-level rigor, assessment, and research. Use of these tools when not explicitly permitted may result in an academic integrity infraction.
Grading Policy
Your grade in this course will be determined by the following criteria:
Grade Breakdown
| Grade Item | Points | Percentage of Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Student Syllabus Contract | 10 | 1% |
| Student Introduction Discussion | 10 | 1% |
| Week 1 Discussion: Pharmacotherapy and the RDN | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 1 Assignment: Drug Information Sheet | 20 | 2% |
| Week 2 Discussion: Fact vs Fiction about Nutraceuticals | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 2 Assignment: Dietary Supplement Information Sheet | 20 | 2% |
| Week 3 Discussion: Getting into the Weeds about Weed Podcast | 45 | 4.5% |
| Week 3 Assignment: Visual Abstract Topic and PICO Question | 20 | 2% |
| Week 4 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Case Study #1 | 75 | 7.5% |
| Week 5 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Blood Pressure Management | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 5 Assignment: Visual Abstract Search Strategy | 20 | 2% |
| Week 6 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Dyslipidemia | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 7 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Glycemic Management | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 7 Assignment: Visual Abstract Literature Search and Selection | 20 | 2% |
| Week 8 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Case Study #2 | 75 | 7.5% |
| Week 9 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Thyroid Health | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 9 Assignment: Visual Abstract Project Instructor-Student Conference | 10 | 1% |
| Week 10 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Case Study #3 | 75 | 7.5% |
| Week 11 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Inflammation | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 11 Assignment: Visual Abstract Critical Examination and Summary Table | 50 | 5% |
| Week 12 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Upper GI Conditions | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 13 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Case Study #4 | 75 | 7.5% |
| Week 14 Discussion: CKD Medication Management Podcast | 40 | 4% |
| Week 15 Discussion: Visual Abstract Presentation Peer Review | 100 | 10% |
| Week 16 Discussion: The Future of Nutrition Pharmacotherapy | 25 | 2.5% |
| Week 16 Assignment: Course Reflection and E-Portfolio | 30 | 3% |
| Total | 1000 | 100% |
The Doctor of Clinical Nutrition Program follows the UNE grading system for all courses, as outlined below. Matriculated graduate students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or better. Failure to do so will result in academic probation and possible termination from the program. Any student receiving a grade below B- on any individual course has failed that course and must re-enroll and repeat the course to achieve a grade of B- or better. Any student who receives a grade of F in two or more courses is dismissed from the program. Please note: A minimum of a 3.0 GPA is required for degree conferral.
Grade Scale
| Grade | Points Grade | Point Average (GPA) |
| A | 94 – 100% | 4.00 |
| A- | 90 – 93% | 3.75 |
| B+ | 87 – 89% | 3.50 |
| B | 84 – 86% | 3.00 |
| B- | 80 – 83% | 2.75 |
| C+ | 77 – 79% | 2.50 |
| C | 74 – 76% | 2.00 |
| C- | 70 – 73% | 1.75 |
| D | 64 – 69% | 1.00 |
| F | 00 – 63% | 0.00 |
Schedule
Course weeks run from 12:00 AM ET on Wednesday through 11:59 PM ET on Tuesday, with the exception of Week 16, which ends on Sunday at 11:59 PM ET. Unless otherwise specified, all discussion comments and assignments are due on the last day of the course week in which they are assigned. Unless otherwise noted, initial responses to discussion prompts are due by the end of Sunday, and peer responses are due by the end of Tuesday.
ALL TIMES ARE IN THE EASTERN STANDARD TIME ZONE, NO EXCEPTIONS.
Course Dates
Week 1: Jan 15 – Jan 21
Week 2: Jan 22 – Jan 28
Week 3: Jan 29 – Feb 4
Week 4: Feb 5 – Feb 11
Week 5: Feb 12 – Feb 18
Week 6: Feb 19 – Feb 25
Week 7: Feb 26 – Mar 4
Week 8: Mar 5 – Mar 11
Week 9: Mar 12 – Mar 18
Week 10: Mar 19 – Mar 25
Week 11: Mar 26 – Apr 1
Week 12: Apr 2 – Apr 8
Week 13: Apr 9 – Apr 15
Week 14: Apr 16 – Apr 22
Week 15: Apr 23 – Apr 29
Week 16: Apr 30 – May 4
Please note: Weeks 1 and 16 will only open on their designated start date after course surveys have been completed.
Week 1: Principles of Pharmacotherapy
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Utilize drug and dietary supplement databases to generate nutrition-related pharmacotherapy recommendations and justify clinical decisions pertaining to pharmacotherapy management.
- Apply key principles of pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical agents.
- Evaluate the role and scope of practice of the nutrition and dietetics professional (e.g., RDN) in recommending, managing, prescribing, and administering pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.
Lectures and Multimedia
- DCN 815 – Principles of Pharmacotherapy, Part 1
- DCN 815 – Principles of Pharmacotherapy, Part 2
- Pharmacokinetics Part 1: Absorption and Bioavailability
- Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
- P450 Enzyme System (Inducers, Inhibitors, & Subtypes)
Required Readings
- Boullata JI. Drug-nutrient interactions and the brain: it’s not all in your head. Curr Nutr Rep. 2019;8(2):92-98.
- Lynch T, Price A. The effect of cytochrome P450 metabolism on drug response, interactions, and adverse effects. Am Fam Physician. 2007;76(3):391-396.
- Lisi DM. Addressing Medication Overload. US Pharm. 2021;46(7):23-28.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Student Syllabus Contract – Must be completed prior to accessing the materials in Week 1
- Week 1 Assignment: Drug Information Sheet
Discussions
- Student Introduction Discussion – Initial post must be submitted prior to accessing the materials in Week 1
- Week 1 Discussion: Pharmacotherapy and the RDN
Week 2: Principles of Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Critically evaluate the scientific evidence related to efficacy and safety, indications and contraindications, and risks and benefits for the use of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements the nutrition management of diverse disease states and clinical conditions.
- Formulate evidence-informed recommendations related to the nutritional prescription of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements for the prevention and management of diverse disease states and clinical conditions.
- Effectively communicate scientific information and evidence-informed recommendations about dietary supplements to diverse audiences including other healthcare professionals and the general public.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Food vs Drugs vs Dietary Supplements
- FDA’s Role in Dietary Supplement Regulation
- Predicting Drug-Nutrient Interactions in Clinical Practice: State of the Science & Time-Saving Tips
Required Readings
- Bailey RL. Current regulatory guidelines and resources to support research of dietary supplements in the United States. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2020;60(2):298-309.
- Asher GN, Corbett AH, Hawke RL. Common herbal dietary supplement-drug interactions. Am Fam Physician. 2017;96(2):101-107.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 2 Assignment: Dietary Supplement Information Sheet
Discussions
- Week 2 Discussion: Fact vs Fiction about Nutraceuticals (aka Dietary Supplements)
Week 3: Pharmacotherapy in Pain Control
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of pain and inflammation and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage pain and inflammation in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
Lectures and Multimedia
- DCN 815 Pharmacotherapy for Pain Management
- Physiology of Pain
- Endorphins
- Acetaminophen
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
- Opioids
- Treatment of Neuropathic Pain
- Anesthesia
- Mechanism of Drug Addiction in the Brain
- Cannabidiol and the Endocannabinoid System
- Opioid Prescribing: Rising to the Challenge
Required Readings
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Pain.
- Tulane University School of Medicine Medical Pharmacology Wiki.
- Introduction to Eicosanoids
- Acetaminophen
- Major Side Effects of NSAIDs & COX-2 Selective Inhibitors.
- Clackler R, Lapos H, Delgado E. The management of postoperative pain. US Pharm. 2024;49(3):HS2-HS7.
- Moore S, Leone C, Hilas O. Pain-management approaches for peripheral neuropathy. US Pharm. 2023;48(3):7-12.
- Alshaarawy O, Balasubramanian G, Venkatesan T. Cannabis use in the United States and its impact on gastrointestinal health. Nutr Clin Pract. 2024;39(2):281-292.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 3 Assignment: Visual Abstract Topic and PICO Question
Discussions
- Week 3 Discussion: Getting into the Weeds about Weed Podcast
Week 4: Pharmacotherapy in the Central Nervous System and Mental Health
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of conditions of the central nervous system (CNS) and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage conditions of the CNS and support mental health.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage conditions of the CNS and support mental health in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage conditions of the CNS and support mental health.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Autonomic Nervous System (Pharmacology, Receptors, and Physiology)
- Cholinergic Drugs
- DCN 815 – Pharmacotherapy for the CNS & Mental Health
- Biology of Mental Health Conditions
- Specific Mental Health Medications
- Antidepressant Pharmacology
- Mood Stabilizers/Pharmacology
- Pharmacology – Antiepileptic Drugs
- Antiepileptics/Seizure Pharmacology
Required Readings
- National Institute of Mental Health. Mental Health Medications. Last Updated December 2023.
- Kovich H, Kim W, Quaste AM. Pharmacologic treatment of depression. Am Fam Physician. 2023;107(2):173-181.
- Fisher R. Summary of Anti-Seizure Medications. Epilepsy Foundation Website.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 4 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Case Study #1
Discussions
- No Discussion Board this week
Week 5: Pharmacotherapy in Cardiovascular Disease – Blood Pressure and Heart Failure
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of blood pressure and heart failure and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage blood pressure and heart failure.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage blood pressure and heart failure in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage blood pressure and heart failure.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Adrenergic Drugs
- Antihypertensive Medications
- DCN 815 – Epidemiology of Hypertension
- DCN 815 – Pathophysiology of Blood Pressure
- DCN 815 – Medication Interventions for Hypertension
- Drugs for Heart Failure
- Heart Failure: Medications and Challenges of Multiple Medications
Required Readings
-
Khalil H, Zeltser R. Antihypertensive medications. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.
-
Golla MSG, Hajouli S, Ludhwani D. Heart failure and ejection fraction. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 5 Assignment: Visual Abstract Search Strategy
Discussions
- Week 5 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Blood Pressure Management
Week 6: Pharmacotherapy in Cardiovascular Disease – Dyslipidemia and Anticoagulation
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of dyslipidemia and blood coagulation and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage dyslipidemia and blood coagulation.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage dyslipidemia and blood coagulation in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage dyslipidemia and blood coagulation.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Lipid-Lowering Drugs
- Lipid Lowering Agents (Cholesterol Drugs)
- Are PCSK9 Inhibitors for LDL Cholesterol Safe and Effective?
- Anticoagulants
- What’s New in Anticoagulation Therapy?
Required Readings
- Backes JM, Hilleman DE. Lipid-lowering therapies: a review of current and future options. US Pharm. 2021;46(2):HS2-HS11.
- Wigle P, Hein B, Bernheisel C. Anticoagulation: updated guidelines for outpatient management. Am Fam Physician. 2019;100(7):426-434.
- Battle A, Lane A, Parish H, Rushing S, Johnson JL, Weldon AJ. Interactions between the gut microbiota and common cardiovascular drugs. US Pharm. 2023;48(2):18-21.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 6 Assignment: Scheduling the Visual Abstract Project Instructor-Student Conference (Preparation for Week 9)
Discussions
- Week 6 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Dyslipidemia
Week 7: Pharmacotherapy in Diabetes
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in glycemic management and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed for glycemic management.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed for glycemic management in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed for glycemic management.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Diabetes Drugs (Oral Antihyperglycemics and Insulins)
- Medication Management in Diabetes
- Optimizing Insulin Therapy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Required Readings
- Donnor T, Sarkar S. Insulin – pharmacology, therapeutic regimens and principles of intensive insulin therapy. Endotext.
- Ganesan K, Rana MBM, Sultan S. Oral Hypoglycemic Medications. StatPearls.
- Latif W, Lambrinos KJ, Rodriguez R. Compare and contrast the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1RAs). StatPearls.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 7 Assignment: Visual Abstract Literature Search and Selection
Discussions
- Week 7 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Glycemic Management
Week 8: Pharmacotherapy in Weight Management
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in weight management and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmacotherapy prescribed for weight management.
- Evaluate pharmacotherapy agents prescribed for weight management in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmacotherapy agents prescribed for glycemic management.
Lectures and Multimedia
- FDA-approved Weight Loss Drugs for Obesity
- Anti-Obesity Pharmacotherapy: Where Are We Now? Where Are We Going?
- Update on Non-Surgical THerapies for Obesity: Focus on Lifestyle and Pharmacotherapy
- Appetite Simulants
Required Readings
- Jeon E, Lee KY, Kim KK. Approved anti-obesity medications in 2022 KSSO guidelines and the promise of phase 3 clinical trials: anti-obesity drugs in the sky and on the horizon. J Obes Metab Sydr. 2023;32(2):106-120.
- Bagley P. Medications to promote weight loss: guidelines from the American Gastroenterological Association. Am Fam Physician. 2023;108(4):424-426.
- Liles AM, Jenkins AB, Hendrix H, Johnson E, Rowe H, McClendon KS. Appetite stimulants for treatment of protein energy wasting in chronic kidney disease. Nephrol Nurs J. 2021;48(3):267-273.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 8 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Case Study #2
Discussions
- No Discussion Board this week
Week 9: Pharmacotherapy in Endocrine Health
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of conditions of the bone and thyroid and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage conditions of the bone and thyroid.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage conditions of the bone and thyroid in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage conditions of the bone and thyroid.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Drugs for Osteoporosis
- Common Questions About Osteoporosis and Drug Therapies
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypothyroidism
Required Readings
- Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation. Medicines for Prevention and Treatment. Last Reviewed February 8, 2023.
- Dakkak M, Banerjee M, White L. Osteoporosis treatment: updated guidelines from ACOG. Am Fam Physician. 2023;108(1):100-104.
- Wilson SA, Stem LA, Bruehlman RD. Hypothyroidism: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2021;103(10):605-613.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 9 Assignment: Visual Abstract Project Instructor-Student Conference (Due Tuesday by 1:59 PM EST)
Discussions
- Week 9 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Thyroid Health
Week 10: Pharmacotherapy in Infectious Disease
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of infectious disease and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage infectious disease.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage infectious disease in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage infectious disease.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Introduction to Infectious Diseases
- Antibiotics – Mechanisms of Action
- Antibiotics – Cell Wall and Membrane Inhibitors
- Antibiotics – DNA, RNA, Folic Acid, Protein Synthesis Inhibitors
- Antibiotic Resistance
- Antiviral Drugs – Mechanisms of Action
- Antiviral Drugs
- Antifungal Drugs
Required Readings
- Shrestha J, Zahra F, Cannady P. Antimicrobial Stewardship. StatPearls.
- Patel P, Wermuth HR, Calhoun C, Hall GA. Antibiotics. StatPearls.
- CDC Antibiotic Fact Sheet
- McKeny PT, Nessel TA, Zito PM. Antifungal Antibiotics. StatPearls.
- Sucher A, Biehle L, Smith A, Tran C. Updated clinical practice guidelines for C difficile infection in adults. US Pharm. 2021;46(12):HS10-HS16.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 10 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Case Study #3
Discussions
- No Discussion Board this week
Week 11: Pharmacotherapy for Inflammation and Immunosuppression
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used to manage inflammation and modulate the immune system and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage inflammation and modulate the immune system.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage inflammation and modulate the immune system in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage inflammation and modulate the immune system.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Histamine and Antihistamine for Modulation of Inflammatory and Immune Pathways
- Respiratory Pharmacology
- Drugs for Asthma and COPD
- Drugs for Asthma and COPD
- Introduction to Antirheumatics (DMARDs)
- Evolution of Biotechnology
- Methotrexate
- Flucocorticoids
- Anti Gout Medications
Required Readings
- Revankar NA, Negi PS. Biotics: an emerging food supplement for health improvement in the era of immune modulation. Nutr Clin Pract. 2024;39(2):311-329.
- Hodgens A, Sharman T. Corticosteroids. StatPearls [Internet].
- Benjamin O, Goyal A, Lappin SL. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD). StatPearls [Internet].
- American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. Understanding biologic and biosimilar drugs. Published July 27, 2018.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 11 Assignment: Visual Abstract Critical Examination and Summary Table
Discussions
- Week 11 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Inflammation
Week 12: Pharmacotherapy in Upper GI Diseases
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of diseases of the upper GI tract and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage diseases of the upper GI tract.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage diseases of the upper GI tract in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage diseases of the upper GI tract.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Autonomic Nervous System (Pharmacotherapy, Receptors, and Physiology)
- Cholinergic Drugs
- Gastrointestinal and Antiemetic Drugs
- DCN 815 – Upper GI Pharmacotherapy
- How to Manage Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting
- Hyperemesis Gravidarum: New Research and Insights
Required Readings
- Hauser JM, Azzam JS, Kasi A. Antiemetic medications. StatPearls.
- Kheloussi S. Appropriate use and safety concerns of proton pump inhibitors. US Pharm. 2017;43(6):38-42.
- Walker M, Kyle JA. Stress ulcer prophylaxis within the ICU. US Pharm. 2023;48(12):HS2-HS10.
- Deane AM, Chapman MJ Blaser AR, McClave SA, Emmanuel A. Pathophysiology and treatment of gastrointestinal motility disorders in the acutely ill. Nutr Clin Pract. 2019;34(1):23-36.
- Please read enough of this article to understand basic pathophysiology of motility disorders and different pharmacologic treatment options.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- No Assignment this week
Discussions
- Week 12 Discussion: Nutraceuticals for Upper GI Conditions
Week 13: Pharmacotherapy in Lower GI Diseases
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of diseases of the lower GI tract and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage diseases of the lower GI tract.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage diseases of the lower GI tract in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage diseases of the lower GI tract.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Motility Disorder Medication
- DCN 815 – Pharmacotherapy for Lower GI Diseases
- Medications for IBD
- Probiotics and Prebiotics
Required Readings
- Su GL, Ko CW, Bercik P, et al. AGA clinical practice guidelines on the role of probiotics in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. Gastroenterology. 2020;159(2):697-705.
- Ouellette E, Kelley A, Ostroff ML, Ostroff JL. Summarizing the 2023 chronic idiopathic constipation guideline. US Pharm. 2023;48(12):17-22.
- Schmick M, Hornecker J. Irritable bowel syndrome: a review of treatment options. US Pharm. 2017;42(12):20-26.
- Nguyen CH, Stabinsky HN, Turner LJ, et al. Emerging therapies for ulcerative colitis-induced pain. US Pharm. 2024;49(3):5-12.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 13 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Case Study #4
Discussions
- No Discussion Board this week
Week 14: Pharmacotherapy for Renal Disease
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Identify the classification of pharmacological agents used in the management of kidney disease and the action of these agents on the body.
- Apply key principles of physiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to define the characteristics of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage kidney disease.
- Evaluate pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage kidney disease in the context of indications, contraindications, physiologic side effects, and nutrition implications.
- Formulate nutrition therapy interventions to mitigate and manage nutrition-related physiologic side effects and nutrition implications from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents prescribed to manage kidney disease.
Lectures and Multimedia
- Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
- Changing the Paradigm of Hyperphosphatemia in CKD: Role of Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide
Required Readings
- Vondracek SF, Teitelbaum I, Kiser TH. Principles of kidney pharmacotherapy for the nephrologist: core curriculum 2021. Am J Kidney Dis. 2021;78(3):442-458.
- Ogata H, Takeshima A, Ito H. An update on phosphate binders for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis: a review of safety profiles. Expert Opin Drug Saf. 2022;21(7):947-955.
- Gutierrez OM. Treatment of iron deficiency anemia in CKD and end-stage kidney disease. Kidney Int Rep. 2021;6(9):2261-2269.
- Sampani E, Theodorakopoulou M, Iatridi F, Sarafidis P. Hyperkalemia in chronic kidney disease: a focus on potassium lowering pharmacotherapy. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2023;24(16):1775-1789.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- No Assignment this week – Look ahead at the Week 15 Assignment
Discussions
- Week 14 Discussion: CKD Medication Management Podcast
Week 15: Pharmacotherapy Evidence Analysis
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Produce a visual abstract that synthesizes interventions and outcomes across multiple primary research studies to answer a clinical nutrition question.
- Apply findings generated from evidence analysis to nutrition practice.
- Create a professional presentation on a topic of interprofessional interest for delivery at a professional conference.
- Dialogue with peers on a pharmacotherapy topic to support mutual professional growth and development.
Lectures and Multimedia
- How to Give and Receive Feedback Effectively
Required Readings
- Hardavella G, Aamli-Gaagnat A, Saad N, Rousalova I, Sreter KB. How to give and receive feedback effectively. Breath (Sheff). 2017;13(4):327-333.
See course for supplemental reading.
Assignments
- Week 15 Assignment: Pharmacotherapy Visual Abstract and Summary Worksheet (Due Wednesday by 11:59 PM EST)
Discussions
- Week 15 Assignment: Visual Abstract Presentation Peer Review
Week 16: Future of Nutrition Pharmacotherapy and Reflective Practice
Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, students will be able to:
- Examine emerging trends and research related to nutrition pharmacotherapy in one’s area of practice.
- Theorize areas of growth and opportunity related to RDN roles and responsibilities in managing, monitoring, and evaluating pharmacotherapeutic interventions.
- Reflect upon current and future opportunities for professional growth.
Required Readings
- No required readings this week
Assignments
- Week 16 Assignment: Course Reflection and E-Portfolio Piece
Discussions
- Week 16 Discussion: The Future of Nutrition Pharmacotherapy
Student Resources
Online Student Support
Your Student Support Specialist is a resource for you. Please don't hesitate to contact them for assistance, including, but not limited to course planning, current problems or issues in a course, resources to support academic success, technology concerns, or personal emergencies.
Questions? Visit the Student Support Applied Nutrition page
UNE Libraries
The University of New England Library Services are central to the intellectual life of the University community and an essential resource for doctorate students across didactic, residency, and research coursework and experiences.
UNE Library Services may be accessed through OKTA or by visiting https://library.une.edu/.
- Library Access for all students: Your library login ID and password are the same as the ones you use to log into Brightspace.
- Nutrition Resources
- Library Questions: Ask a librarian or phone library staff at (207) 602-2361 or (207) 221-4330.
Accommodations
Any student who would like to request, or ask any questions regarding, academic adjustments or accommodations must contact the Student Access Center at (207) 221-4438 or pcstudentaccess@une.edu. Student Access Center staff will evaluate the student's documentation and determine eligibility of accommodation(s) through the Student Access Center registration procedure.
Online Peer Support
Togetherall is a 24/7 communication and emotional support platform monitored by trained clinicians. It’s a safe place online to get things off your chest, have conversations, express yourself creatively, and learn how to manage your mental health. If sharing isn’t your thing, Togetherall has other tools and courses to help you look after yourself with plenty of resources to explore. Whether you’re struggling to cope, feeling low, or just need a place to talk, Togetherall can help you explore your feelings in a safe supportive environment. You can join Togetherall using your UNE email address.
Information Technology Services (ITS)
Students should notify their Student Support Specialist and instructor in the event of a problem relating to a course. This notification should occur promptly and proactively to support timely resolution.
ITS Contact: Toll-Free Help Desk 24 hours/7 days per week at 1-877-518-4673.
Career Ready Program
The College of Professional Studies supports its online students and alumni in their career journey!
The Career Ready Program provides tools and resources to help students explore and hone in on their career goals, search for jobs, create and improve professional documents, build professional network, learn interview skills, grow as a professional, and more. Come back often, at any time, as you move through your journey from career readiness as a student to career growth, satisfaction, and success as alumni.
Policies
AMA Writing Style Statement
In keeping with the requirements of the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, the American Medical Association (AMA) Manual of Style, 11th edition is the required writing format for this course and is available at both UNE libraries under the title "AMA Manual." Additional support for academic writing and AMA format is provided throughout the coursework as well as at the UNE Portal for Online Students.
Online resources: AMA Style Guide
Turnitin Originality Check and Plagiarism Detection Tool
The College of Professional Studies uses Turnitin to help deter plagiarism and to foster the proper attribution of sources. Turnitin provides comparative reports for submitted assignments that reflect similarities in other written works. This can include, but is not limited to, previously submitted assignments, internet articles, research journals, and academic databases.
You can learn more about Turnitin here: Understanding the Similarity Score for Students.
Submission of Coursework for Publication or Presentation
Students interested in submitting a manuscript or other work completed in the course for publication or presentation external to UNE must obtain written approval from the course instructor and DCN Program Director prior to submission. The student should contact the course instructor or DCN Program Director to obtain a copy of the DCN Permission to Publish/Present Form which must be completed by the student per the form's instructions. Failure to follow these steps and complete the form prior to submission for publication/presentation or abide by the requirements therein will result in a professionalism violation. If granted permission to publish or present, the student is expected to indicate that the manuscript or other work was prepared as part of course and degree requirements while a student in the Doctor of Clinical Nutrition at the University of New England. University affiliation for publications, abstracts, posters, or other presentations should be listed as "Graduate Programs in Applied Nutrition, College of Professional Studies, University of New England." Please contact the DCN Program Director for UNE templates and logos that must be used for posters and presentations.
Technology Requirements
Please review the technical requirements for UNE Online Graduate Programs: Technical Requirements
Students are responsible for ensuring continuous access to computer and technology requirements throughout their program of study. Course faculty will not routinely accept computer or other technology issues as an excuse for assignments that are not submitted per instructions, that are submitted late, or are missing a submission.
Course Participation Policy
Courses within the DCN Program are demanding and exacting. Students are expected to be present in course discussions and group activities, prepared for class, and actively engaged as evidenced by critical thinking and meaningful participation. Students are expected to schedule their personal and/or professional obligations and their course registrations so as to maintain continuous and complete participation throughout courses. Any absence from course activities will impede learning. However, circumstances may arise that cause students to be absent from active course participation on either a preplanned or an emergency basis.
Active course participation is defined as engaged participation in group activities, fulfilling discussion requirements within the published timeline, and submitting assignments within the published timeline. Absence is defined as lacking engaged participation in group activities and not fulfilling discussion requirements within the published timeline, and/or not submitting assignments within the published timeline.
Both preplanned and emergency absences are to be kept to a minimum and should not exceed, cumulatively, 10% of the assignments in a course. Exceeding this limit may result in grade reduction for the course or failing the course. Students are to make arrangements in advance of the absences with the instructor for submission of assignments and discussion participation, in accordance with specifications communicated in the course syllabus. An emergency absence is one that students do not know about in advance and often involves situations such as health issues. In this case, students are to notify the instructor as soon as possible and make arrangements for submission of assignments and discussion participation in accordance with specifications communicated in the course syllabus.
Late Policy
Assignments: Assignments submitted after the due date and time will receive a deduction of 10% of the total possible grade for each day it is late. After three days, the assignment will not be accepted. No assignments will be accepted after the course ends.
Discussion posts: If the initial post is submitted late, acceptance of the discussion board is at the discretion of the faculty. Any posts submitted after the end of the Discussion Board week will not be graded.
Students are encouraged to make every effort ahead of time to contact their instructor and their student support specialist if they are not able to meet an assignment deadline. Arrangements for extenuating circumstances may be considered by faculty.