How Do You Spell METHYLXANTHINE?

Pronunciation: [mˈiːθɪlksˌanθa͡ɪn] (IPA)

Methylxanthine is a chemical compound commonly found in coffee and tea. The correct spelling is quite complex, but can be broken down using IPA phonetic transcription as "meth-uhl-zan-theen." Each syllable is pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable, followed by a short "uh" sound for the second syllable and a long "a" sound for the third. The final syllable is pronounced with a soft "th" sound and a short "een." Despite its difficult spelling, methylxanthine is an important component of many widely consumed beverages.

METHYLXANTHINE Meaning and Definition

1. Methylxanthine is a chemical compound belonging to the class of xanthine derivatives. It is characterized by the presence of a methyl (-CH3) group in its chemical structure. Methylxanthines are naturally occurring alkaloids found in various plants, such as coffee beans, tea leaves, and cacao beans.

   The most common methylxanthines include caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These compounds are known for their stimulant properties and are widely consumed in the form of coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate. Methylxanthines act as central nervous system stimulants, exerting effects on the brain and enhancing alertness, wakefulness, and cognitive functions.

   In addition to their stimulant effects, methylxanthines also possess other physiological properties. They can relax smooth muscles in the airways and blood vessels, leading to bronchodilation and vasodilation, respectively. This property makes theophylline a commonly used medication for the treatment of respiratory conditions, like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

   Furthermore, methylxanthines have diuretic effects, promoting increased urine production and aiding in the removal of excess fluids from the body. They are also known to affect cardiac muscle contractility and can have mild positive inotropic effects.

   While methylxanthines offer several potential benefits, excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects, including restlessness, tremors, insomnia, increased heart rate, and even dependence. It is important to consume methylxanthine-containing products in moderation and be aware of individual sensitivity to their effects.

   Overall, methylxanthines play a significant role in human consumption and pharmacology, with caffeine being the most well-known and widely consumed methylxanthine compound.

2. Heteroxanthine.

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

Common Misspellings for METHYLXANTHINE

• methylxanthinm
• methylxanthina
• methylxanthing
• methylxanthighne
• methylxaunthine
• m ethylxanthine
• me thylxanthine
• met hylxanthine
• meth ylxanthine
• methy lxanthine
• methyl xanthine
• methylx anthine
• methylxa nthine
• methylxan thine
• methylxant hine
• methylxanth ine
• methylxanthi ne
• methylxanthin e

Etymology of METHYLXANTHINE

The word "methylxanthine" is derived from two parts: "methyl" and "xanthine".

1. "Methyl" comes from the chemical functional group called "methyl", which consists of one carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms (CH3-). It indicates the presence of a methyl group in a molecule.

2. "Xanthine" originates from the Greek word "xanthos", meaning "yellow", due to the yellow coloration of certain xanthine compounds. Xanthines are a group of natural compounds that exhibit various properties, including stimulant effects. They are found in various plants, such as coffee beans, tea leaves, and cacao beans.

Therefore, "methylxanthine" refers to a group of compounds with a methyl group attached to xanthine.