Agonists are substances that bind to and activate receptors in the brain, causing an increase in neural activity. They mimic or enhance the effects of neurotransmitters.
Related terms
Reuptake Inhibitors: These prevent neurotransmitters from being reabsorbed into the sending neuron, allowing them to stay in the synapse longer and continue exerting their effects.
Agonist Drugs: These are medications that act as agonists, binding to specific receptors and activating them to produce therapeutic effects.
Partial Agonists: These substances have a moderate effect on receptor activation compared to full agonists, producing a less intense response.