1. Plural of agonist; substances (such as drugs or hormones) that bind to a receptor and trigger a physiological response.
Usage: pharmacology, biochemistry
2. Plural of agonist; muscles that contract to produce a particular movement.
Usage: anatomy, physiology

Examples

• Beta-agonists are commonly used to treat asthma by relaxing airway muscles.
• The drug works by acting as an agonist at dopamine receptors in the brain.
• When you flex your bicep, the biceps muscle acts as an agonist.
• Opioid agonists bind to opioid receptors and produce pain relief.
• The physical therapist explained that agonists and antagonists work together to control movement.
• Selective serotonin agonists are used to treat certain types of migraines.