What term describes the phenomenon when two drugs with similar pharmacological effects result in increased effects when combined?

What term describes the phenomenon when two drugs with similar pharmacological effects result in increased effects when combined?

• A. Displacement
• B. Additive effects
• C. Synergism
• D. Interference

Answer: (C)

The term that describes the phenomenon when two drugs with similar pharmacological effects result in increased effects when combined is synergism. This occurs when the combined action of two drugs produces a greater effect than the sum of their individual effects. In other words, when two drugs with similar mechanisms of action are administered together, their effects enhance each other, leading to a much stronger therapeutic outcome than if each drug were used separately. Synergism is particularly important in clinical practice because it can maximize therapeutic benefits while potentially minimizing the doses needed for efficacy. Understanding this concept helps pharmacy technicians and healthcare providers anticipate the effects of drug combinations and manage patient therapies effectively.

The term that describes the phenomenon when two drugs with similar pharmacological effects result in increased effects when combined is synergism. This occurs when the combined action of two drugs produces a greater effect than the sum of their individual effects. In other words, when two drugs with similar mechanisms of action are administered together, their effects enhance each other, leading to a much stronger therapeutic outcome than if each drug were used separately.

Synergism is particularly important in clinical practice because it can maximize therapeutic benefits while potentially minimizing the doses needed for efficacy. Understanding this concept helps pharmacy technicians and healthcare providers anticipate the effects of drug combinations and manage patient therapies effectively.