What term describes the combined effects of two drugs where their interaction results in a greater effect than either drug alone?

The term that describes the combined effects of two drugs where their interaction results in a greater effect than either drug alone is “synergistic.” In pharmacology, a synergistic effect occurs when two or more substances interact to produce a combined effect that is greater than the sum of their individual effects. This is significant in both therapeutic settings, where such interactions can enhance desired outcomes, and in understanding potential risks when multiple medications are prescribed.

Other terms mentioned do not fit this definition: idiosyncratic reactions refer to unusual responses to a drug that are specific to an individual, cumulative effects pertain to the increase in effect due to the repeated administration of a drug over time, and hypersensitivity refers to an exaggerated response to a drug typically involving the immune system. Each of these concepts differs fundamentally from the notion of synergy, highlighting how synergistic relationships can be particularly crucial in clinical practice.