NCLEX Questions on Neurological System Related

Review NCLEX Questions on Neurological System related questions and content

A drug is called an agonist if it ________.

  • A. blocks a receptor
  • B. interferes with neurotransmitter reuptake
  • C. acts like the endogenous neurotransmitter by binding to its receptor
  • D. blocks the voltage-gated calcium ion channel
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because an agonist mimics the action of the endogenous neurotransmitter by binding to its receptor. This leads to activation of the receptor and physiological response. Choice A is incorrect as an agonist does not block a receptor. Choice B is incorrect as it describes a reuptake inhibitor, not an agonist. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a calcium channel blocker, not an agonist. In conclusion, an agonist activates a receptor by binding to it, unlike the other choices which describe different mechanisms of action.