IDOXURIDINE Meaning and
Definition
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Idoxuridine is a synthetic antiviral medication that belongs to the class of medicines known as nucleoside analogues. It is primarily used in the treatment of viral infections, particularly those caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2. This compound is available in the form of a topical ointment or eye drop and works by inhibiting the replication of viral DNA within infected cells.
The exact mechanism of action of idoxuridine involves its conversion into its active form, iododeoxyuridine triphosphate (IdUTP), once it enters the infected cells. IdUTP works by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase enzyme, which is essential for viral DNA replication. By doing so, idoxuridine prevents the further spread and multiplication of the virus within the body.
The use of idoxuridine is primarily restricted to topical application due to its potential toxic effects when administered systemically. It is commonly employed in the treatment of herpetic keratitis, a viral infection affecting the eyes. When applied topically, idoxuridine is absorbed into the cornea and effectively targets the herpes simplex virus present in the ocular tissues.
While idoxuridine can effectively reduce the symptoms and duration of herpes viral infections, it is important to note that it cannot completely cure the infection. It primarily offers symptomatic relief and helps in decreasing the severity of outbreaks. Adverse effects associated with idoxuridine may include mild eye irritation, stinging, or burning sensation at the site of application.
Common Misspellings for IDOXURIDINE
- udoxuridine
- jdoxuridine
- kdoxuridine
- odoxuridine
- 9doxuridine
- 8doxuridine
- isoxuridine
- ixoxuridine
- icoxuridine
- ifoxuridine
- iroxuridine
- ieoxuridine
- idixuridine
- idkxuridine
- idlxuridine
- idpxuridine
- id0xuridine
- id9xuridine
- idozuridine
- idocuridine
Etymology of IDOXURIDINE
The word "Idoxuridine" originates from its chemical structure and composition. It is composed of the base "Idox" and the suffix "-uridine".
The term "Idox" refers to the chemical compound "iodine" (symbol: I) combined with the prefix "dox" which could originate from "doxology" (a religious praise or glorification) or have Latin roots meaning "teach" or "praise". Therefore, "Idox" in this context might convey the concept of iodine used for a specific purpose, teaching, or glorifying a substance.
The suffix "-uridine" is derived from "uridine", which is a nucleoside (a building block of nucleic acids) that encompasses a pyrimidine base called "uracil" attached to a ribose sugar molecule. Uridine is involved in RNA synthesis and other biochemical processes.
