Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

agonist

noun

/ˈæɡənɪst/

Definition

A substance that binds to a receptor and activates it, producing a biological response.

Examples

The doctor prescribed a beta-agonist to help open the patient’s airways.
In the study, the agonist successfully increased the heart rate in the test subjects.

Meaning

In pharmacology, an agonist is a chemical that binds to a receptor in the body and mimics the action of a natural substance, often resulting in a physiological response.