Augmentation (pharmacology)

Augmentation (pharmacology) is a concept in pharmacology that refers to the increase in effectiveness of a drug when combined with another. This can occur when two drugs have similar pharmacodynamic properties, or when one drug enhances the effect of another.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action for augmentation in pharmacology is complex and can vary depending on the specific drugs involved. Generally, augmentation occurs when one drug increases the bioavailability, potency, or efficacy of another drug. This can occur through various mechanisms, such as increasing the absorption of the second drug, decreasing its metabolism or excretion, or enhancing its activity at its site of action.

Clinical Significance

Augmentation can have significant clinical implications. It can be used to enhance the effectiveness of treatment regimens, allowing for lower doses of individual drugs and potentially reducing side effects. However, it can also increase the risk of drug toxicity and adverse reactions, particularly if the interaction is not well understood or anticipated.

Examples

One common example of augmentation is the use of ritonavir to boost the effectiveness of other protease inhibitors in the treatment of HIV. Ritonavir inhibits the metabolism of other protease inhibitors, increasing their concentration in the body and enhancing their antiviral effect.

Another example is the combination of clavulanic acid with amoxicillin to treat bacterial infections. Clavulanic acid inhibits beta-lactamase, an enzyme produced by some bacteria that degrades amoxicillin, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the antibiotic.

See Also

• Synergy (drug interaction)
• Potentiation
• Pharmacokinetics
• Pharmacodynamics