The word "Lithagogue" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /lɪθəɡɒɡ/. The first syllable is pronounced as "LITH" with a short "i" sound, followed by the "TH" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "a" with a short "a" sound and the "G" sound. The third syllable is pronounced as "O" with an "aw" sound and again the "G" sound. The final syllable is pronounced as "UE" with a "g" sound at the end. The word Lithagogue refers to a medicine that helps to expel stones present in the body.
Lithagogue is a noun that refers to a substance or agent that aids in the reduction or prevention of stone formation within the body. Derived from the Greek words "lithos" meaning stone and "agōgos" meaning leading, the term lithagogue essentially translates to "stone-leading."
In a medical context, this term primarily describes medications or dietary supplements that help dissolve or prevent the formation of kidney stones or gallstones. Lithagogues work by altering the composition of bodily fluids, such as urine or bile, to make them less likely to precipitate and form solid stone deposits. These substances may possess properties that increase the solubility of minerals or impede the crystallization process, ultimately assisting in the breakdown and elimination of stones.
Various lithagogues can be found in nature, with some herbal remedies and plant extracts known to possess litholytic properties. These natural lithagogues are often sought after for their potential in providing a more holistic approach to stone prevention or treatment.
It is worth noting that the use of lithagogues should ideally be guided by medical professionals, as the effectiveness and safety of these substances can vary depending on the individual's condition and other underlying factors.
1. Causing the dislodgment or expulsion of calculi, especially urinary calculi. 2. An agent which is credited with causing the partial solution and expulsion of urinary calculi.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word Lithagogue is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: lithos meaning stone and agoguein meaning to lead or to guide. When brought together, lithagogue essentially translates to stone leader or stone guide.