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An antagonist drug binds to a brain receptor and stops the receptor from producing a response by blocking the effect of a neurotransmitter or hormone.

E.g. Ketamine inhibits the action of the N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor.

“Antagonize” can also refer to interactions where one drug reduces or blocks the effectiveness of another drug.

E.g. Certain medications can interact with each other in a way that reduces efficacy or causes harmful side effects.

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