Dictionary of Biological Psychology
An antagonist is a DRUG or chemical that binds to a RECEPTOR and blocks it, preventing it operating normally.
It may be a COMPETITIVE ANTAGONIST (also known as SURMOUNTABLE ANTAGONIST) (that is, they compete with the natural LIGAND and AGONIST for receptor occupancy) or it may be an unsurmountable antagonist—agonists at whatever concentration cannot overcome these. An IRREVERSIBLE ANTAGONIST is one which remains bound to receptors for very long periods, up to and including forever.
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