AMPHOTERICIN Meaning and
Definition
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Amphotericin is a noun that refers to a broad-spectrum antifungal drug derived from the bacterium Streptomyces nodosus. It is produced in the form of a complex consisting of several closely related compounds, collectively called amphotericin B. This medication is primarily used for the treatment of severe fungal infections caused by fungi such as Candida and Aspergillus.
Amphotericin exhibits its antifungal effects by binding to ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cells' membrane. It forms pores in the fungal cell membrane, leading to the leakage of important intracellular molecules and ions necessary for fungal growth and survival. This mechanism disrupts the fungal cell's integrity, thus inhibiting its ability to proliferate and causing its ultimate death.
The term "amphotericin" is often used as a general term, referring to both the drug amphotericin B and its closely related compounds. It is commonly administered intravenously due to its poor oral bioavailability. However, due to its potential for severe side effects, such as kidney toxicity and infusion-related reactions, amphotericin therapy necessitates careful monitoring and medical supervision.
Amphotericin is an essential tool in the treatment of severe or potentially life-threatening systemic fungal infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Despite its adverse effects, the drug remains crucial in managing infections that may not respond to other antifungal agents, making it an indispensable part of modern medical interventions.
Common Misspellings for AMPHOTERICIN
- zmphotericin
- smphotericin
- wmphotericin
- qmphotericin
- anphotericin
- akphotericin
- ajphotericin
- amohotericin
- amlhotericin
- am-hotericin
- am0hotericin
- ampgotericin
- ampbotericin
- ampnotericin
- ampjotericin
- ampuotericin
- ampyotericin
- amphitericin
- amphktericin
Etymology of AMPHOTERICIN
The word "amphotericin" comes from a combination of "ampho-" and "-tericin".
"Ampho-" is derived from the Greek word "amphi", meaning "both" or "on both sides". This prefix indicates the dual or intermediate properties of the compound.
The suffix "-tericin" is derived from the Latin word "teres", meaning "smooth" or "polished". It was introduced with the expectation that the structure of the compound would be smooth or regular.
Therefore, "amphotericin" implies a compound that exhibits both acidic and basic properties, reflecting its ability to react with both acids and bases.
Similar spelling words for AMPHOTERICIN
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