HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is meant by "antagonism" in pharmacology?

1. Enhancement of drug effects

2. Opposite or contrary action of a drug

3. Synergistic interaction between drugs

4. Absorption of drug properties

The correct answer is: Opposite or contrary action of a drug

Antagonism in pharmacology refers to the opposite or contrary action of a drug. When one substance inhibits or counteracts the effects of another, it is described as having antagonistic properties. For example, in the context of receptor interactions, an antagonist binds to a receptor but does not activate it, effectively blocking or diminishing the effect of an agonist that would normally trigger a response. This concept is crucial in understanding drug interactions as it highlights how certain medications can be used to counteract the effects of others, leading to therapeutic benefits or reversing adverse effects. The other options do not accurately define antagonism. The enhancement of drug effects relates to synergism, where two drugs work together, and absorption refers to how a drug is taken up into the body, which is unrelated to the concept of antagonism.