View source for Alpha-adrenergic agonist

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==Overview==

An '''adrenergic alpha-agonist''' is a drug which selectively stimulates alpha [[adrenergic receptor]]s. The alpha-adrenergic receptor has two subclasses α<sub>1</sub> and α<sub>2</sub>. Although complete selectivity between receptor agonism is rarely achieved, [[phenylephrine]] is an α<sub>1</sub> agonist, while [[clonidine]] and [[methyldopa]] are α<sub>2</sub> partial agonists <ref>Pharmacology (3rd Edition) Rang, Dale and Ritter</ref>.   

An example is [[xylazine]].

Alpha-adrenergic agonists are used in the treatment of [[glaucoma]] by decreasing the production of aqueous fluid by the ciliary bodies of the eye.  
==External links==
* {{MeshName|Adrenergic+alpha-Agonists}}
* {{MeshPharmaList|82000316}}


{{Receptor agonists and antagonists}}

[[Category:Drugs]]


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