Overview
An agonist is a molecule that mimics the behavior of a bodily compound as it binds to cell receptors and triggers a biological response.
A full agonist produces as much response as possible from the cell. A partial agonist produces a weaker response. An inverse agonist produces the opposite response of a regular agonist once it binds to the same receptors. A co-agonist activates the receptors in conjunction with another molecule.
Methadone, a full opioid agonist, and buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, are highly effective Medication-Assisted Treatments (MATs) for those with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).
Vareniciline is a partial nicotinic agonist that can ease withdrawal symptoms while making smoking less rewarding, while standard Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) products like patches, gums, and lozenges are full nicotinic agonists.
Benzodiazepines are GABA agonists prescribed for panic disorders and acute withdrawal symptoms.
Buspirone is a partial serotonin arguments commonly used to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) since it’s non-addictive and doesn’t form physical dependence.