Antisympathomimetic is a term that is commonly used in the field of medicine. It refers to a class of drugs that have the ability to block the actions of sympathomimetic agents, which are substances that activate the sympathetic nervous system. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and associations of the term antisympathomimetic.
Definitions
Antisympathomimetic is a term used to describe drugs that inhibit or block the effects of sympathomimetic agents. These agents stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the “fight or flight” response in the body. Antisympathomimetic drugs are used to treat conditions such as hypertension, anxiety, and arrhythmias.
Origin
The term antisympathomimetic is derived from three words: anti, meaning against; sympatho, meaning sympathetic nervous system; and mimetic, meaning imitating. The term was first used in the early 20th century to describe drugs that block the effects of sympathomimetic agents.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, antisympathomimetic is defined as “a drug that opposes the effects of a sympathomimetic agent.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a drug that inhibits the action of a substance that mimics the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.”
Associations
Antisympathomimetic drugs are commonly used in the treatment of hypertension, anxiety, and arrhythmias. They work by blocking the effects of sympathomimetic agents, which can cause an increase in blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of antisympathomimetic include sympatholytic, adrenergic blocker, and alpha blocker.
Antonyms
Antonyms of antisympathomimetic include sympathomimetic, adrenergic agonist, and alpha agonist.
The same root words
Other words that contain the same root words as antisympathomimetic include sympathomimetic, sympatholytic, and sympathetically.
Example Sentences
- The patient was prescribed an antisympathomimetic drug to lower their blood pressure.
- The doctor recommended an antisympathomimetic medication to help with the patient’s anxiety.
- The drug works as an antisympathomimetic, blocking the effects of the sympathomimetic agent.
In conclusion, antisympathomimetic is a term used to describe drugs that inhibit or block the effects of sympathomimetic agents. These drugs are commonly used in the treatment of hypertension, anxiety, and arrhythmias. Understanding the meaning and associations of this term is important for anyone working in the medical field.