Question

Discuss additive, synergistic(potentiation), and antagonist drug effect. Why is it important for the nurse to understand these concepts

Answer 1

1) Additive effect : An additive effect means the effect of two chemicals is equal to the sum of the effect of the chemicals taken seperately. Example intake of Aspirin and Acetaminophen together which is an active ingredient of Tylenol. If both are taken together then it will give the pain-killing effects of both the chemicals in body.

2) Synergistic effect: Syngertic effect can be explained as when the effect of two chemicals is more than the sum of the effect of the chemicals taken seperately. This can result in life threathening conditions. Example: Alcohol and acetaminophen if taken together can cause liver damage because both the drugs are processed in liver and it places lot of strain on liver which can cause liver failure. Alcohol taken before a hypnotic drug can increase the effect of the drug.

3) Antagonist effect: Its the type of drug interaction in which when two or more drugs taken together may produce opposite effects on the body. One drug may block or reduce the effect of other drug. Example Glucagon and Insulin. These two drugs acts on different receptors but antagonize the effect of each other. Protamine has an antagonist effect on heparin. Thus it helps to stop bleeding.

The knowledge of the drug interactions is very important for the nurses. Nurses are mainly the persons who handle medications and is involved with its administration and after effects of administration. Knowing the concept of additive, synergistic and antagonist effect of drug will help nurses to understand which drugs can be administered safely in combination with other drugs. The patients often receive multiple drugs together which may develop any of the following effects that may create a life threathening condition or a adverse effect of the drug. From above the synergistic and antagonist effect of the drug is considered to be more dangerous.

• The knowledge of these concepts will help to maintain patient safety.
• It will prevent medication errors and incidences of adverse effects.
• Sentinal events are reduced.
• Timely management of adverse reactions can be done.
• Helps in safe administration of the drug.