Glossary of Pharmacology 

Full Agonist

An agonist that binds to the receptor and triggers the maximal biological response regulated by the receptor. Full agonist binding to the receptor triggers a conformational change that facilitates the full activation of the receptor and therefore, generates maximal biological effect.

Example:

Morphine is a full agonist of µ-opioid receptorsand can fully activate the receptor leading to maximal analgesic response but can be also associated with side effects.

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