What it means
The way a drug causes its effect, often by acting on a receptor, an enzyme or a channel in cells. For example, furosemidefyoo-ROH-suh-mideA loop diuretic: a drug that makes the kidneys remove more salt and water from the body.Full entry blocks the reabsorption of sodium in the loop of Henle, and a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitorsuh-LEK-tiv sair-uh-TOH-nin ree-UP-tayk in-HIB-ih-terA type of antidepressant that raises serotonin levels between nerve cells by slowing its reuptake.Full entry keeps more serotonin in the space between nerve cells. Knowing it helps a nurse predict a drug's effects, side effects and interactions.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | MOA, MoA |
|---|---|
| Spanish | mecanismo de acción |
| Also written | mechanisms of action, MoA |
Related terms
side effect
An effect of a drug, other than the one it is given for, that is known and expected to happen in some people.
adverse effect
An unwanted and harmful effect of a drug or treatment given at a normal dose.
blocker
A drug that stops a receptor or channel in the body from being activated, so the usual effect does not happen.