MOA

MOA or Mechanism of Action refers to the specific biochemical interaction through which a drug substance produces its pharmacological effect. A mechanism of action usually includes mention of the specific molecular targets to which the drug binds, such as an enzyme or receptor.

Overview

The mechanism of action of a drug is important because it helps in the understanding of how the drug works. It can also help in the development of new drugs that can target the same mechanism but with fewer side effects. The mechanism of action of a drug is usually determined through scientific experiments.

Drug Receptors

Drugs interact with receptors in various ways. Agonists bind to receptors and activate them. Antagonists bind to receptors but do not activate them. This blocks the receptor and prevents it from being activated by agonists. Inverse agonists reduce the activity of receptors even if there are no agonists present.

Drug-Enzyme Interactions

Drugs can also interact with enzymes, either to enhance or inhibit their actions. This can alter the metabolic pathway and can lead to an increase or decrease in the production of certain substances in the body.

Drug-Transporter Interactions

Some drugs can interact with transporter proteins that move substances across cell membranes. This can affect the distribution of the drug in the body and can influence the drug's effectiveness and side effects.

Drug-Chemical Interactions

Drugs can also interact with other chemicals in the body. This can lead to changes in the drug's effectiveness and can cause side effects.

See Also

• Pharmacodynamics
• Pharmacokinetics
• Drug metabolism
• Drug discovery

References

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