agonist
noun
ag·o·nist
ˈa-gə-nist 
1
: one that is engaged in a struggle
2
[from antagonist]
a
: a muscle that is controlled by the action of an antagonist with which it is paired
b
: a chemical substance capable of combining with a specific receptor on a cell and initiating the same reaction or activity typically produced by the binding endogenous substance
dopaminergic agonists
compare antagonist sense 2b
Examples of agonist in a Sentence
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The conversation around expectations is more nuanced with massive weight loss patients—those who have, with the help of GLP-1 agonists, bariatric surgery, and/or lifestyle modifications, shed at least half of their excess weight.
—
Jolene Edgar, Allure, 20 Nov. 2024
One of the most prominent medical developments in recent years has been the emergence of a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs).
—Tom Hawking, Popular Science, 17 Oct. 2024
Of note: Only 18% of firms with 200 or more workers offering health benefits cover GLP-1 agonists for weight loss.
—Maya Goldman, Axios, 9 Oct. 2024
These medications are classified as GLP-1 receptor agonists.
—Karen Berger, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024
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Jolene Edgar, Allure, 20 Nov. 2024
One of the most prominent medical developments in recent years has been the emergence of a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs).
—Tom Hawking, Popular Science, 17 Oct. 2024
Of note: Only 18% of firms with 200 or more workers offering health benefits cover GLP-1 agonists for weight loss.
—Maya Goldman, Axios, 9 Oct. 2024
These medications are classified as GLP-1 receptor agonists.
—Karen Berger, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for agonist
Dictionary Entries Near agonist
Cite this Entry
“Agonist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/agonist. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
agonist
noun
ag·o·nist
ˈag-ə-nəst
1
: a muscle that on contracting is automatically checked and controlled by the opposing simultaneous contraction of another muscle
called also agonist muscle, prime mover
compare antagonist sense a, synergist sense 22
: a chemical substance (as a drug) capable of combining with a receptor on a cell and initiating the same reaction or activity typically produced by the binding of an endogenous substance
binding of adrenergic agonists
compare antagonist sense b
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