Agonist

Definition

An agonist binds and activates a receptor. Full agonists produce the maximum possible response; partial agonists produce a submaximal response even at full receptor occupancy.

Related terms

• AntagonistA drug that binds a receptor without activating it, blocking agonist action.
• GPCRG-protein coupled receptor — a family of membrane receptors that transduce signals via heterotrimeric G proteins.

Compounds that reference Agonist

• SemaglutideAn FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.
• TirzepatideAn FDA-approved dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that has shown the highest weight loss results of any approved medication.
• PT-141An FDA-approved melanocortin receptor agonist used for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women.
• RetatrutideA triple-acting GIP/GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonist in Phase 3 trials showing potentially the highest weight loss of any drug in development.
• Melanotan IIA melanocortin receptor agonist that stimulates melanin production (tanning) and has sexual function effects. Significant safety concerns.