mechanism of action
biochemical interaction through which a drug produces its pharmacological effect
antioxidant
molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules
antimetabolite
drugs that are chemically similar to naturally occurring metabolites, but differ enough to interfere with normal metabolic pathways. (from ama drug evaluations annual, 1994, p2033)
antacid
substance which neutralizes stomach acidity, used to relieve heartburn, indigestion or an upset stomach
antifoaming agent
chemical additive that reduces and hinders the formation of foam in liquids
aversive agent
chemicals added to pharmacologic preparations, poisonous household goods, and other chemicals to discourage their abuse or consumption
alkylating agent
highly reactive chemical that introduces alkyl radicals into biologically active molecules and thereby prevents their proper functioning
enzyme activator
compounds or factors that act on a specific enzyme to increase its activity