Pharmacodynamics · Pharmacology

What occurs during the process of receptor 'Down-regulation'?

  1. The receptor becomes markedly more sensitive to the drug
  2. The number of surface receptors decreases after chronic agonist exposure
  3. The drug is metabolized more quickly by liver enzymes
  4. The affinity of the receptor for its natural ligand increases substantially
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: The number of surface receptors decreases after chronic agonist exposure

Continuous stimulation of receptors by agonists often leads to their internalization and degradation. This decrease in receptor density is a key mechanism behind the development of pharmacodynamic tolerance.

Difficulty: Medium Question 9 of 20

Practice all 20 Pharmacodynamics questions

Keep practicing

More Pharmacodynamics questions