The correct spelling for the phrase "applied medication" is əˈplaɪd mɛdɪˈkeɪʃən. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, while the second syllable has a long "i" sound as in "eye". The word "medication" is spelled with a short "e" sound, and the final syllable has an "shun" sound represented by the IPA symbol "ʃən". The word "applied" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable and a long "i" sound as in "eye". Overall, the word is spelled phonetically according to the sounds of the English language.
Applied medication refers to the administration of drugs or substances with therapeutic properties to a specific area of the body. It involves the direct application of medication to the external surface or mucous membranes of the body, enabling targeted treatment of various conditions. This term encompasses a variety of methods, such as topical applications, external creams, ointments, gels, lotions, patches, solutions, or sprays that are directly applied onto the skin, eyes, nose, ears, or other accessible body surfaces.
Applied medication is typically used for localized treatment, focusing on specific concerns like skin conditions, pain relief, infection control, or symptom management. By delivering drugs directly to the targeted area, it allows for more precise and efficient absorption into the body and concentration at the affected site. This localized approach aims to minimize systemic absorption and potential side effects that may occur with systemic drug administration.
Furthermore, applied medication can also refer to the application of medication within body cavities or through specific routes like inhalation, nasal drops, eye drops, eardrops, or rectal suppositories. These methods ensure direct contact with the affected area, maximizing the therapeutic effect while reducing the risk of unwanted effects in other parts of the body.
Overall, applied medication provides a valuable means of delivering targeted treatment to specific body areas, helping to alleviate symptoms, promote healing, and improve overall health and well-being.
The term "applied medication" does not have a specific etymology because it is a combination of two separate words. However, we can examine the origins of each individual word to understand their meanings.
- "Applied" comes from the Latin word "applicare", which means "to attach", "to put on", or "to take hold". It later developed into the Old French word "apliquer", which means "to apply" or "to put to". In English, "applied" refers to the action of putting something into practical use or putting something onto a particular surface or area.
- "Medication" derives from the Latin word "medicatio", which means "healing" or "remedy". It is related to the Latin verb "medicari", meaning "to heal" or "to treat".