How Do You Spell ANTIPYRETIC?

Pronunciation: [ˌantɪpa͡ɪɹˈɛtɪk] (IPA)

Antipyretic is a medical term that describes a substance or medication that reduces fever. It is spelled with the prefix anti- meaning "against" and the root word pyretic, which is derived from the Greek word pyretos, meaning "fever". The pronunciation of this word is æntiˌpaɪˈrɛtɪk, with the stress on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription breaks down the pronunciation into individual phonemes or sound units, helping to explain the spelling of the word in greater detail.

ANTIPYRETIC Meaning and Definition

  1. Antipyretic is an adjective used to describe substances or medications that are capable of reducing or alleviating fever symptoms. Derived from the Greek words "anti" meaning against, and "pyretos" meaning fever, antipyretics play a key role in the treatment of various fever-related conditions.

    An antipyretic medication works by targeting the hypothalamus, a region in the brain that controls body temperature, and inhibiting the production of prostaglandins—a group of chemicals that contribute to the elevation of body temperature. By blocking the synthesis of these substances, antipyretics help to normalize body temperature and relieve the unpleasant symptoms associated with fever, such as chills, perspiration, headache, and general discomfort.

    Common antipyretic drugs include acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol), ibuprofen, and aspirin. These medications can be taken orally or administered via other methods like suppositories or intravenous injections, depending on the circumstances and the severity of the fever. It is important to adhere to the recommended dosage as excessive use or misuse of antipyretics can lead to harmful side effects.

    Overall, the main goal of antipyretics is to provide symptomatic relief by reducing high body temperature, allowing the body's immune system to better fight infections or other underlying causes of fever.

  2. 1. Reducing fever. 2. An agent tending to reduce fever, a febrifuge.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ANTIPYRETIC

Etymology of ANTIPYRETIC

The word antipyretic is derived from two Greek origins: anti meaning against and pyretos meaning fever. Hence, antipyretic literally translates to against fever.

Similar spelling words for ANTIPYRETIC

Plural form of ANTIPYRETIC is ANTIPYRETICS

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