PARAXANTHINE Meaning and
Definition
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Paraxanthine, also known by its chemical name 1,7-dimethylxanthine, is a naturally occurring alkaloid compound that belongs to the xanthine class of substances. It serves as a pharmacologically active metabolite of caffeine, one of the most consumed stimulants worldwide. Paraxanthine is formed in the liver through the enzymatic oxidation of caffeine by cytochrome P450.
Paraxanthine exhibits several distinctive properties and effects on the human body. It acts as a mild central nervous system stimulant, promoting wakefulness and alertness. Unlike caffeine, however, it does not have a significant effect on adenosine receptors, the targets of caffeine responsible for inducing its stimulating effects. Paradoxically, paraxanthine functions as an antagonist to adenosine receptors, thereby attenuating their activation.
Due to its unique pharmacological profile, paraxanthine plays a role in various physiological processes. It stimulates the release of lipid-derived energy substrates, such as fatty acids from adipose tissues, resulting in increased lipid metabolism. In addition, paraxanthine enhances the release of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline, thereby influencing mood and promoting a sense of well-being.
Paraxanthine is also recognized for its diuretic properties, facilitating increased urine production. It has been suggested that this effect may contribute to the stimulating effects of caffeine, as increased urine flow can lead to improved renal function and overall hydration.
In conclusion, paraxanthine is a metabolite of caffeine that possesses unique properties, including central nervous system stimulation, adenosine receptor antagonism, lipid metabolism enhancement, neurotransmitter release facilitation, and diuretic effects.
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A xanthine base, C7H8N4O2, sometimes found in the urine, and formed in excess in cases of gout.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PARAXANTHINE
- paraxanthioe
- paraxanthinu
- paraxanthina
- paraxanthing
- paraxeanthine
- paraxanthighne
- paraxaunthine
- pa raxanthine
- par axanthine
- para xanthine
- parax anthine
- paraxa nthine
- paraxan thine
- paraxant hine
- paraxanth ine
- paraxanthi ne
- paraxanthin e
Etymology of PARAXANTHINE
The word "paraxanthine" is derived from the combination of two terms: "para" and "xanthine".
The prefix "para" originates from the Greek word "para", meaning "beside" or "alongside". In scientific terminology, it is commonly used to denote an isomer or a compound that is structurally similar to another.
The term "xanthine" stems from the Greek word "xanthos", meaning "yellow". Xanthine is a naturally occurring chemical compound that is found in various substances such as coffee, tea, and cacao. It is a purine base, a type of organic compound commonly found in nucleic acids. Xanthine has stimulant effects on the central nervous system and acts as a mild diuretic.
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