The word "protargol" is spelled with eight letters: p-r-o-t-a-r-g-o-l. It is pronounced as /prəʊˈtɑːrɡɒl/ using IPA phonetic transcription. The stress is on the second syllable, which is pronounced as "tahr." Protargol is a medication that was historically used as an antiseptic and astringent agent. It contains silver in its ionic form and is used to treat various medical conditions such as conjunctivitis and respiratory infections. While its usage is less prevalent today, the word "protargol" continues to be an important medical term.
Protargol is a chemical compound used in medicine and especially in ophthalmology. It is a silver protein compound that contains approximately 8% silver, and is most commonly administered in the form of an eye drop solution. Protargol is widely recognized for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective treatment for various ocular infections, including conjunctivitis and keratitis.
Protargol functions by releasing silver ions that have the ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. These silver ions work by binding to and disrupting the cellular membranes of the bacteria, ultimately leading to their death. In addition to its antimicrobial action, protargol also possesses anti-inflammatory characteristics, reducing redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with ocular infections.
The eyedrops are typically administered as directed by a medical professional, with the frequency and duration of usage depending on the specific condition being treated. While generally safe for use, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to minimize any potential side effects, such as temporary stinging or burning sensations.
Overall, protargol is a valuable therapeutic agent in the field of ophthalmology, offering a dual mechanism of action through its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its efficacy and relatively low incidence of side effects make it a popular choice for treating various ocular infections.
A trade name for silver proteid, silver protein, or silver methylenealbumose; a yellow powder, soluble in water, and containing about 8 per cent. of metallic silver; employed in septic conditions in doses of 1 to 3 grains (0.06-0.18), as an injection in gonorrhea in solutions of 1-400 to 1-100, and in eye affections in solutions of 1-200 to 1-20.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "protargol" is derived from the combination of two elements: "proto-" and "argol".
"Proto-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "protos", meaning "first" or "foremost". It is commonly used in science to indicate something as the earliest or original form.
"Argol" is a term used to describe a byproduct of wine production. It refers to the sediment that settles at the bottom of barrels during fermentation. This term originated in the late 16th century and is derived from the French word "argot", meaning "lees of wine".
When combined, "protargol" literally means "the first or earliest form of argol". The term "protargol" specifically refers to a remedy used in medicine, particularly as an antimicrobial agent, that was developed in the late 19th century.