SYMPATHOMIMETIC Meaning and
Definition
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Sympathomimetic is an adjective that refers to a drug or substance that mimics the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body's response to stress and emergency situations, commonly known as the "fight-or-flight" response.
A sympathomimetic substance acts by stimulating the adrenergic receptors present throughout the body, which are typically activated by adrenaline (also known as epinephrine). The activation of these receptors leads to a variety of physiological responses, including increased heart rate, dilation of the pupils, constriction of blood vessels, and increased blood pressure.
Sympathomimetic drugs are used for a wide range of medical purposes. They are commonly employed to treat conditions such as low blood pressure, asthma, allergic reactions, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Additionally, they can also be used in emergency medicine to quickly raise blood pressure and heart rate in cases of shock or cardiac arrest.
However, it is worth noting that sympathomimetic substances can have various side effects, including increased anxiety, tremors, and palpitations. Therefore, their use should always be carefully monitored by medical professionals and in accordance with prescribed dosages.
In summary, sympathomimetic refers to substances that imitate the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, activating adrenergic receptors and causing physiological responses associated with the body's response to stress and emergencies.
Common Misspellings for SYMPATHOMIMETIC
- aympathomimetic
- zympathomimetic
- xympathomimetic
- dympathomimetic
- eympathomimetic
- wympathomimetic
- stmpathomimetic
- sgmpathomimetic
- shmpathomimetic
- sumpathomimetic
- s7mpathomimetic
- s6mpathomimetic
- synpathomimetic
- sykpathomimetic
- syjpathomimetic
- symoathomimetic
- symlathomimetic
- sym-athomimetic
- sym0athomimetic
Etymology of SYMPATHOMIMETIC
The word "sympathomimetic" is derived from two roots: "sympatho-" and "-mimetic".
The prefix "sympatho-" comes from the Greek word "sympatheia", meaning "feeling" or "sympathy". In this context, it refers to the sympathetic nervous system, which is part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the "fight or flight" response.
The suffix "-mimetic" originates from the Greek word "mimetikos", meaning "imitating" or "copying". In medical terminology, "-mimetic" is used to describe substances or drugs that mimic the effects of natural chemicals or substances.
Therefore, the term "sympathomimetic" literally means "mimicking or imitating the sympathetic nervous system".
Similar spelling words for SYMPATHOMIMETIC
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