(PHG 413: Pharmacognosy-3 (1+1

The course deals with a comprehensive study of vitamins, minerals and hormones, with reference to other steroids of pharmaceutical interest. Aspects to be covered include conventional and biotechnological sources, commercial production, chemistry, methods of evaluation, deficiency, toxicity and clinical indications. The role of hormones in replacement therapy and the importance of vitamins and minerals in nutrition will be emphasized. In addition, estrogens and progestogens used in hormonal contraception are discussed.