Combined Effect Of Drug

Question 1

Increased effect

Answer 1

• Additive
• potentiation
• synergism

Question 2

Additive

Answer 2

The combined effect of two or more drugs is equal to the sum of their individual Effect
I.e; ibuprofen and paracetamol as analgesic

Question 3

Potentiation

Answer 3

The enhancement of action of one drug by another drug that is inactive is called potentiation
I.e: levodopa + carbidopa: carbidopa inhibits the breakdown of levodopa, thus enhancing effect

Acetylcholine + physostigmine : physostigmine inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine thus enhancing their effect.

Question 4

Synergism

Answer 4

When two or more drugs are administered simultaneously, their combined effect is greater than elicited by their drug alone.
I.e: sulphamethoxazole + trimethoprim

Question 5

Decrease response

Answer 5

1. Physical antagonism
2. Chemical antagonism
3. Physiological antagonism
4. Pharmacological antagonism

Question 6

Physical antagonism

Answer 6

The opposing action of the two drugs is due to their physical property
I.e: activated charcoal adsorbs toxic substances (alkaloids) in poisoning

Question 7

Chemical antagonism

Answer 7

A type of antagonism where drugs counter the effect of another by simple reaction/ neutralisation
I.e: •antacids are weak bases that neutralise the acidity in stomach
•chelating agents forms complex with metals and useful in heavy metal poisoning

Question 8

Non-competitive antagonism

Answer 8

The antagonist binds to the different site on the receptor and prevents agonist from interacting with the receptor
It cannot be overcome by increasing the concentration of agonist
I.e: diazepam and bicuculine