The word "picrotoxic" refers to a substance found in the seeds of certain plants. Its spelling is pronounced as /ˌpɪkroʊˈtɑksɪk/. The first syllable "pic" is pronounced as "pick", followed by "ro" which is pronounced as "row". The next syllable "tox" is pronounced as "tox" and the final syllable "ic" is pronounced as "ick". The word can be broken down phonetically as /pik/ - /ro/ - /tox/ - /ic/ where each syllable has its own distinct sound.
Picrotoxic is an adjective that refers to something that is related to or derived from picrotoxin. Picrotoxin is a natural toxic substance, found in various plants such as the Anamirta cocculus and the Menispermum cocculus, which are primarily found in Asia. It is notably used as a fish poison and as an insecticide.
In terms of its pharmacological properties, picrotoxin acts as a noncompetitive antagonist of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits the activity of nerve cells in the brain. Therefore, the term picrotoxic can be used to describe any substance or effect that inhibits or counteracts GABA activity.
The effects of picrotoxic substances can vary depending on the dosage and the route of administration. At low doses, it can cause convulsions and seizures due to its interference with GABAergic signaling. However, at higher doses, picrotoxic effects may include general depression of the central nervous system, confusion, and respiratory distress.
Due to its toxic nature, picrotoxic compounds are often used with caution and under strict supervision in scientific research and experimentation. It is also important to note that the use of picrotoxic substances for any purpose other than scientific research or approved applications is highly discouraged due to their potential harmful effects on human health.
Pert. to.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "picrotoxic" is formed from two components: "picr-", derived from the Greek word "pikros" meaning "bitter", and "-toxic", derived from the Greek word "toxikon" meaning "poison". The combination of these components creates the term "picrotoxic", which refers to something that is both extremely bitter and toxic or poisonous.