What type of antagonism is demonstrated by the combination of Insulin with Glucocorticoids?

• A. Physiologic
• B. Pharmacologic
• C. Chemical
• D. Physical

Answer: (A)

Physiologic antagonism occurs when two agents produce opposite effects on a physiological process through different mechanisms, without directly blocking each other’s receptor. Insulin lowers blood glucose by promoting uptake and storage, while glucocorticoids raise blood glucose by promoting gluconeogenesis and causing insulin resistance. Their opposing actions balance glucose levels, even though they work through separate pathways. This isn’t due to one blocking the other’s receptor (pharmacologic antagonism), nor a chemical reaction between them (chemical antagonism) or a physical interference (physical antagonism).