AMINOPHYLLINE Meaning and
Definition
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Aminophylline is a medication used in the treatment of respiratory disorders, specifically chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. It is classified as a bronchodilator and belongs to the xanthine drug group. Aminophylline works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways, resulting in their dilation, which facilitates easier breathing.
The medication is available in various formulations, including oral tablets and injectable solution. The oral form is typically taken by mouth, while the intravenous route is used in emergency situations. Aminophylline is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and widely distributed throughout the body.
The active ingredient in aminophylline is theophylline, which is a naturally occurring compound found in tea plants. When ingested or administered, theophylline acts as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, blocking the enzyme responsible for breaking down cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). The elevation of cAMP levels leads to relaxation of the smooth muscles surrounding the bronchioles, thereby promoting bronchodilation and improving respiratory function.
Aminophylline also exhibits other pharmacological effects, such as increasing respiratory drive and stimulating the cardiac muscle. It is important to note that aminophylline has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that maintaining its blood levels within a specific range is crucial to ensure optimal therapeutic effects while avoiding toxicity.
Common side effects of aminophylline may include gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., nausea, vomiting), increased heart rate, headache, insomnia, and tremors. Serious adverse reactions can occur at high doses, including cardiac arrhythmias and seizures. Therefore, careful monitoring of blood levels and adjustment of dosage is necessary to maximize therapeutic benefits and minimize risks.
Common Misspellings for AMINOPHYLLINE
- zminophylline
- sminophylline
- wminophylline
- qminophylline
- aninophylline
- akinophylline
- ajinophylline
- amunophylline
- amjnophylline
- amknophylline
- amonophylline
- am9nophylline
- am8nophylline
- amibophylline
- amimophylline
- amijophylline
- amihophylline
- aminiphylline
- aminkphylline
Etymology of AMINOPHYLLINE
The word "aminophylline" has a Greek and Latin etymology. It is derived from the Greek word "amino" (αμινο), meaning "ammonia" or "nitrogen-containing", and the Latin word "phyllon", meaning "leaf". The name is possibly given due to the presence of nitrogen in the compound's chemical structure and its leafy appearance when synthesized as a solid.
Similar spelling words for AMINOPHYLLINE
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