Northern Virginia Community College
Northern Virginia Community College

Revised 9/2026

DNH 216 - Pharmacology (2 CR.)

Course Description

Studies the chemical and therapeutic agents used in dentistry, including their preparation, effectiveness, and specific application. Lecture 2 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

This course provides an understanding of pharmacology as it relates to dental practice. Emphasis is placed on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, therapeutic uses, adverse effects, contraindications, and drug interactions. Students apply pharmacologic knowledge to medical and medication histories, oral health implications, patient management, treatment modifications, and safe clinical decision-making.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Prerequisites: DNH 111, DNH 115, DNH 130, DNH 141, and CST 229.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze patient medical and medication histories to identify potential drug interactions, adverse effects, contraindications, and considerations for dental treatment
  • explain the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, therapeutic uses, and adverse effects of major drug classes
  • apply pharmacologic principles to dental hygiene patient management and treatment planning
  • evaluate the oral and systemic implications of medications commonly encountered in dental practice
  • identify appropriate precautions and treatment modifications for medically complex patients to support safe dental hygiene care
  • use reliable drug information resources to support evidence-based clinical decision-making

Major Topics to Be Included

  • general Principles of Pharmacology
  • pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
  • adverse Drug Reactions, Drug Interactions, and Contraindications
  • autonomic Drugs
  • analgesics and Opioids
  • anti-infective, Antifungal, and Antiviral Agents
  • antianxiety and Sedative Agents
  • local and General Anesthetics
  • cardiovascular Medications
  • gastrointestinal Medications
  • antiepileptic and Psychotherapeutic Agents
  • corticosteroids, Respiratory, and Antihistamine Medications
  • endocrine and Hormonal Medications
  • antineoplastic Agents
  • emergency Drugs
  • pharmacologic Considerations in Pregnancy and Lactation
  • substance Use Disorders
  • herbal and Dietary Supplements
  • oral Therapeutics and Preventive Agents