What is the difference between synergism, antagonism, indifference???
2006-08-14 03:59:01 · 2 answers · asked by lobis3 5 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Medicine
Synergism is when two or more agents act together to achieve an outcome greater than any one of them acting alone could. A common example of this is the use of meperidine (Demerol) and promethazine (Phenergen) together for pain control. Demerol will provide, say, x amount of pain relief. Phenergen will provide perhaps 1/2 x amount of pain relief. However, if used together, Demerol and Phenergen can provide 2-4 x amount of pain relief.
Antagonism is when two agents act against one another. An example of this is opiates (such as Morphine and Heroin) and naloxone (Narcan). Morphine binds to specific receptor sites on cells (opiod receptors). Narcan also binds to these receptor sites, but with a stronger bond and actually displaces Morphine from these sites.
Sorry, I do not recall coming across the term indifference as specifically used in pharmacology. Could this be reffering to tolerence, and/or to the failure of the cells/body to respond to an agent?
2006-08-14 04:16:10 · answer #1 · answered by Wayne D 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
compatability, conflict, disinterest
2006-08-14 11:07:37 · answer #2 · answered by John S 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋