ANTEPYRETIC Meaning and
Definition
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Antepyretic is a medical term used to describe a substance or treatment that is capable of reducing or preventing fever. Derived from the Greek words "anti" meaning against, and "pyretic" meaning fever, antepyretic refers to any intervention that counteracts or opposes the development of an elevated body temperature.
Antepyretic agents work by targeting the physiological processes that lead to an increase in body temperature. They function by modulating the body's thermoregulatory system, which regulates heat production, retention, and dissipation. Common antipyretics include over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (paracetamol), ibuprofen, and aspirin, which can effectively reduce fever and provide relief from associated symptoms such as headache, malaise, and muscle aches.
The mechanism through which antepyretics exert their effects involves interference with the production or action of certain substances in the body, such as prostaglandins, which are known to play a role in fever induction. By blocking the synthesis or binding of these molecules, antepyretics help to normalize body temperature and restore the body's equilibrium.
Antepyretics are typically used as a supportive measure in the management of fever associated with various conditions, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, and certain drug reactions. They should be used under appropriate medical guidance, considering factors such as the underlying cause of fever, the individual's age, and any potential contraindications or interactions with other medications.
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Antefebrile. (Not to be confounded with antipyretic.).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ANTEPYRETIC
- antpyretic
- antipyretic
- antypyretic
- zntepyretic
- sntepyretic
- wntepyretic
- qntepyretic
- abtepyretic
- amtepyretic
- ajtepyretic
- ahtepyretic
- anrepyretic
- anfepyretic
- angepyretic
- anyepyretic
- an6epyretic
- an5epyretic
- antwpyretic
- antspyretic
- antdpyretic
Etymology of ANTEPYRETIC
The word "antepyretic" is derived from two roots: "anti-" and "pyretic".
1. The prefix "anti-" is of Greek origin and means "against" or "opposite". commonly used in English to indicate opposition or negation, such as in "antibiotic" (against bacteria) or "antidote" (against a poison).
2. The root "pyretic" is derived from the Greek word "pyretos", which means "fever". related to the Greek verb "pyro", meaning "to cause to burn" or "to cause heat". This root is also seen in words like "pyrotechnics" (study of fireworks) or "pyromaniac" (a person with an intense fascination with fire).
When combined, "antepyretic" literally means "against fever" or "opposing fever".
Similar spelling words for ANTEPYRETIC
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