Receptor Desensitization

Pharmacodynamics

Reduced receptor responsiveness following prolonged or repeated exposure to an agonist. Mechanisms include receptor phosphorylation, internalization, and downregulation. Basis for drug tolerance.

Examples

Beta-2 agonist tachyphylaxis
Opioid tolerance
Nicotinic receptor desensitization

Did You Know?

Reduced receptor responsiveness following prolonged or repeated exposure to an agonist. Mechanisms include receptor phosphorylation, internalization, and downregulation. Basis for drug tolerance.