Quinamidine is a chemical compound used as an antimalarial and antiparasitic agent. The word is spelled as /kwɪˈnæmɪdiːn/, which is pronounced as "kwuh-NAM-uh-deen". The first syllable "kwɪ" sounds like "qu" in "queen", "næ" is pronounced like "nay" in "say", while "mɪ" sounds like "me" in "the". Lastly, "diːn" is pronounced like "deen" in "Dean". The spelling of Quinamidine follows the standard English pronunciation rules, making it easy for most people to say and spell correctly.
Quinamidine is a term that is primarily used in the field of pharmacology and medicine. It refers to a chemical compound that belongs to the class of histamine H1 antagonists, commonly known as antihistamines.
Antihistamines are substances that are capable of blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. Quinamidine specifically acts as a selective antagonist of the H1 receptor, which is responsible for mediating the effects of histamine in various tissues and cells throughout the body.
By acting as an H1 antagonist, quinamidine effectively inhibits the allergic response triggered by histamine, thereby alleviating symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes commonly associated with conditions like hay fever or allergic rhinitis. Additionally, it also helps to relieve symptoms of allergic skin conditions like hives or dermatitis.
Quinamidine is often administered orally, but it may also be available in topical formulations for certain skin conditions. It is typically used in the form of tablets or capsules and is commonly found in over-the-counter antihistamine medications or prescribed by healthcare professionals for allergic conditions.
Although quinamidine provides effective relief for allergy symptoms, it may cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or gastrointestinal disturbances. These side effects can vary in severity depending on the individual and the dosage used. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using quinamidine to ensure appropriate usage and to address any potential contraindications or interactions with other medications or underlying medical conditions.
An artificial alkaloid isomeric with quinamicine, made from quinamine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "quinamidine" is a compound formed by combining the words "quinine" and "guanidine".
- "Quinine" is an alkaloid compound derived from the bark of the cinchona tree, historically used as an antimalarial drug. The term "quinine" comes from the Spanish word "quina" which refers to the cinchona tree bark.
- "Guanidine" is an organic compound made up of carbon, nitrogen, and hydrogen atoms. The word "guanidine" is derived from the substance "guanine", which was initially obtained from guano (bird excrement rich in nitrogen). Guanosine, a derivative of guanine, contains guanidine in its structure.