What happens when two drugs potentiate each other?

When two drugs potentiate each other, they enhance the overall effect of one another. This phenomenon occurs when the combined action of the two drugs produces a greater effect than the sum of their individual effects. For instance, if Drug A has an efficacy level of 50% and Drug B has an efficacy level of 30%, when taken together, their combined effect could exceed 80% rather than merely reaching 80% through simple addition.

This synergy can arise from various mechanisms, such as one drug increasing the absorption of another, altering its metabolism, or acting on different pathways that ultimately lead to a more effective therapeutic outcome. Recognizing drug potentiation is crucial in medication management, as it can significantly enhance therapeutic efficacy but may also heighten the risk of side effects or toxicity when such combinations are not carefully monitored.