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Biostatistics & Research · single question

On a dose-response curve graphic comparing two drugs, which drug is considered more 'potent'?

  1. The drug whose curve is shifted to the LEFT, requiring a LOWER dose to achieve the same magnitude of effect
  2. The drug whose curve is shifted to the right, requiring a higher dose for the same effect
  3. The drug with the higher maximum efficacy (Emax), regardless of dose required
  4. Potency cannot be determined from a dose-response curve
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. The drug whose curve is shifted to the LEFT, requiring a LOWER dose to achieve the same magnitude of effect

Potency refers to how much drug (dose) is required to produce a given effect — on a dose-response curve, the drug whose curve sits further to the LEFT (achieving the same effect at a lower dose) is considered more potent. This is distinct from efficacy (Emax), which refers to the maximum effect achievable regardless of dose, and a drug can be more potent without necessarily having higher maximum efficacy.

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